family travel trailers under 5000 lbs

12 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs: 2024 Models

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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 .

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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
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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.

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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.

Good 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.

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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!

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10 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs

• BUYERS GUIDE

G. Yoganand

Looking for best travel trailers under 5000 lbs that can be easily towed by your car? If yes, then continue reading this article.

Travel trailers normally weigh anything from 1000 lbs to more than 10,000 lbs. The demand for the mid range travel trailers from 3500 lbs to 8000 lbs is high because they are perfect for a small family of 4 to 6 people.

Also, the most popular and easy to tow trailers are in this range. You get all the standard features and amenities that you would need for spending days in these trailers. Even full time traveling is possible in these RVs.

10 Best travel trailers weighing less than 5000 lbs

So, lets get started and see some of the top travel trailers that weigh just under 5000 lbs. Each of these brands have multiple models and floor plans where in the weight can vary a little above 5000 lbs as well. But, overall you will find best options in these brands.

Below are the best and top rated travel trailers under 5000 lbs weight .

Lets now see each of these options in detail.

1. KZ Sportsmen Classic Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer

Don’t allow the weight or length to fool you. This KZ Sportsmen Classic is a full package!

The travel trailer comes with seven different floorplans to select from, enabling you to customize your trailer in the best way possible. One of the floor plans offers a bunk bed option perfect for families.

Key features :

• Pre-wired back up cameras. This is much necessary for travel trailer specially if you are new to RVing.
• Entry steps that can flip. Easy to deploy and are solid for footing
• Powered awning that can extend and retract very fast. Awning also has LED lights.
• 12 year warranty on a roof that is a 1 piece.
• More secure locking system
• Multiple floorplans giving different sleeping options of queen bed to tent bed
• dinette with good benching seating
• 2 burner cook top in a kitchen that has deep sink
• Insulated floor and roof
• Spacious bathroom/shower

Most of the travel trailers under 5000 pounds do not offer this kind of bed system, but this one makes it seamless.

There are 9 different models/floor plans to choose from. The most light weight being 160QB and the one at higher end is 190TH.

The unloaded vehicle weights starts from 2860 lbs and goes upto 3400 lbs.

Depending on your needs you can choose from any of these models. Most specifications vary slightly and some items remain same throughout.

Like, for example furnace in all of these models is 20,000 BTU. Fresh water tank capacity is 20 gallons in almost all except for 2 higher end models where in it is at 38 gallons.

Awning length is approximately 10-14′ in these models, that’s a great added living space during the setup at the campground.

Again each of these floorplans have varying sleeping capacity that goes from 3 to 8 people. 180RBT can sleep 8 people that has tent beds on either ends and also one more on the sideways.

When it comes to getting off the grid, this trailer features a perfect off-road package and a ready solar prep making it one of the best options. It has lots of available upgrade options, but the standard trailer set up is itself excellent.

It features multiple bed sizes to select from enough for up to five people, a kitchen with an ideal deep sink, and a dining table big enough for a family.

All these features make the trailer feel like home when camping with your family. Other excellent features of the travel trailer include an electronically controlled heated holding tank and aluminum rims with 15-inches mud tires.

2. Airstream Sport Travel Trailer

The whole RV community respects Airstream and their satisfied userbase is huge. Airstream Sport is among the most sought after and unique travel trailer weighing under 5000 pounds.

This awesome trailer by Airstream weighs around 3634 lbs dry and the overall GVWR stands at 4500 lbs.

One of the reasons why this trailer is so light is the identifiable aluminum exterior.

Although the sleek exterior design looks similar to the models that Airstream has had for some past decades, the interior design, layout, and appliances are up to date. Its simple design makes it feel cozy, functional, and roomy.

Price of this Airstream trailer starts at $57,400

Key Features :

• Comfortable sleeping bed for 2
• Dinette for 4 people that can also turn into bed for 2 more people.
• Heat strip to keep the trailer warm
• Air conditioner and fan to keep the interior cool and fresh air circulation
• Awesome interior textures and color schemes that makes it home like.
• 2 stove burner, microwave and conventional oven makes the cooking a breeze
• Back side large bathroom with wooden door, window
• Has exterior shower that can be used to clean camping gears.
• grate outdoor storage for all your gears, camping items and accessories
• Comfortable foam mattress for a good night sleep
• Retractable awning to keep things cool outside the trailer.

Tank capacity in this Airstream is as below:

• Fresh water tank capacity : 20 gallons
• Gray Tank capacity : 24 gallons
• Black tank capacity : 18 gallons

Although the Airstream Sport is a compact trailer, it makes the most of its space and manages to pack a punch. This elegant and lightweight travel trailer has two floorplans to select from, which gives you some room for customization.

Both the floorplans feature a well thought out layout to optimize storage and space. Each floor plan has a complete kitchen with a microwave, fridge, gas stove, and sufficient storage space.

There is also an amazingly full dining room, a roomy bathroom setup, and a large bedroom to accommodate up to four people.

It also includes an auxiliary heat strip, an air conditioner, and a Solar Pre-wire kit for the ultimate comfortability. This will always be a reliable and classic travel trailer option for campers.

This fresh water capacity may seem little low but this is a small trailer and is best suited for 2 to 4 people only. At this accommodation capacity, i think this is a great travel trailer.

The only thing with this RV is that its on the higher end spectrum of cost. If you are a fan of Airstream then you shouldn’t be much worried about the cots.

Also, Airstream are very well known for their quality and longevity. Their resale value is also very high. If you own it, you may probably own it for 10-30 years straight unless you want to upgrade to higher accommodation capacity RV.

3. Jayco Hummingbird

Third on this list “ Jayco “, is a famous company that has been a leader in the RV and travel trailer world for a long time.

Their Hummingbird 17RB is an astral trailer with floor designs that maximize space that proves their innovative capabilities. Special features included in this great camper include; USB ports, LED lighting, keyed-alike entry, exterior speakers, and a power awning.

With a length of 19’9”, and unload weight of 3010 pounds, this is a spacious and lightweight travel trailer, excellent for your camping expenditures.

This trailer features a large dinette in the living room ideal for relaxing after a tiring day of exploring.

The dinette can also convert into additional sleeping space for two with the overhead storage above the dinette being perfect for flashlights, games, and other stuff. The sleeping area features an expedient queen-sized bed, framed with two windows to let in cool breezes as you relax and overhead storage to keep your belongings.

• Spacious bathroom with ample shower area
• Astro foil insulation
• 2 burner cook top in the kitchen
• 20 lbs of propane tank capacity
• 60 by 70 comfortable bed that is the front
• Overall sleeping capacity of 3 to 4 people
• centrally located kitchen and dinette that is spacious.
• 2 storage compartment on the outer side of the RV
• Vinyl flooring

Tank Capacities :

• Fresh water tank capacity : 25.6 Gallons
• Gray Tank Capacity : 25.4 Gallons
• Black Tank Capacity : 25.4 gallons

The tank capacity is better than the Airstream trailer that we saw.

This travel trailer is around 19 feet long that is also on average length we will see in our list of trailer in this category. The trailer is provided with an awning of 9 feet that is great at this length of trailer.

Lets see the weight capacities of this trailer.

• Cargo Capacity : 840 lbs
• Dry hitch weight : 3095 lbs
• Unloaded weight : 3010 lbs
• GVWR : 3850 lbs

So, you can see that this falls well udner 5000 lbs and you own a car or truck that pulling capacity under 5000 lbs then you can be sure that it will do the job.

Another thing i like about this travel trailer is the look. Its tiny yet good spacious look makes it great. The vacuum binded floor and wall are much better for protection.

Its properly insulated making it great for winter seasons as well. Jayco RVs in general have better construction, the superiors making process makes these trailer much better for living.

The kitchen comes with everything you require to prepare a yummy meal while you hit the road.

It is well equipped with a two-burner stove, microwave, fridge, and storage ready for cooking. Also, it has a bathroom covering all the bases, including a toilet, a shower, a sink, and an underneath storage.

A large linen closet in the bathroom is another of its unique features that are rare to find in other travel trailers.

The large tanks make it an excellent camper for weekend gateways or extended camping tours, not to forget it also comes wired for a rear backup camera, which is excellent particularly to camping newbies.

You need to contact the dealer for price of this model. The base price for the model starts at around $15,000. This will increase as you add optional items to the RV.

4. Keystone Passport Travel Trailer

Keystone Passport is one of the most customizable travel trailers featuring 31 floorplans, making it one of the best travel trailers. All the plans are slightly different, ensuring you get the layout that suits your family needs best.

This trailer is not only recommendable for its numerous floor plans but also because of how pleasant it is for outdoor use. It comes standard with patio entrance light, exterior speakers, USB charging ports, and LED awning lights to give you a gratifying camping experience.

• Is equipped with a outdoor shower that can be sued for cleaning gears and outdoor items.
• Solar pre package that is great for boondocking
• External storage at the rear end that is great for storage items
• Water resistant flooring that is stronger and much more resilient. Its lighter and yet stronger.
• Electric stabilizer jacks.
• larger and comfortable dinette seating that also converts to sofa.
• Power awning that can retract on a push button. It also has tilt feature that is great in keeping direct sunlight and rain.
• Sleeping capacity of 4 to 5 people
• 13,500 BTU Air conditioner is great for cooling
• 30,000 BTU furnace for heating during the winter
• LED flat television
• 6 cu. feet refrigerator
• 60 by 80 dimension queen sized bed

Keystone passport is a low in weight and yet provides features and comforts. Its a stylish little trailer that is great for a small family.

There are 5 floor plans that you can choose from. Each of these floor plans have wight less than 5000 lbs. The dry weight of these travel trailers is between 3421 lbs to 4430 lbs.

• Fresh water tank capacity : 43 gallons
• Gray tank capacity : 30 gallons
• Black tank capacity : 30 gallons
• LPG Tank capacity : 40 lbs

The higher end floor plan has a little higher gray and black tanks. A 40 lbs propane tank is great and is higher as compared to others in this category.

Inside, the camper has residential style furniture that makes it fell like a home away from home. During the cold climate, a 30,000 BTU furnace offers sufficient heating power, while a 13,500 BTU air conditioner will help you keep cool during the summer.

With optimized storage solutions inside and under the trailer , you will comfortably carry everything you require for camping with you. Keystone provides lots of expansions to perfect your design if the standard features are not sufficient for your needs.

5. Coleman Lantern LT

Most people are conversant with the Coleman name for their great camping accessories. They offer great and reliable gold standard products for outdoor camping.

Their travel trailer models incorporate the quality manufacturing Coleman is famous for. This LT 18FQ is a top travel trailer that features a large sleeping capacity to accommodate six adults courtesy of the single over double bunk beds in the rear.

In the front of the trailer, you have a dinette that folds for sleeping and a queen RV bed.

The Coleman Lantern LT 18FQ also comes with excellent standard features and design made with your camping needs in mind.

It consists of a 6-gallon water heater, tinted safety glass, backup camera prep single 20# LP bottle, and solar charging connected.

This trailer also features a power front tongue jack as well as a power stabilizer jack. It’s furniture, features and appliances mimic home furnishings. Along with the highly durable residential grade vinyl flooring, this RV has many deep drawers to store everything you need.

• Back up camera prep
• 2 burner cook top in the spacious kitchen
• A very large awning of 11 feet long
• cargo carrying capacity of 860 lbs
• power awing with LED lights
• Equipped with standard sized appliances like AC, refrigerator, furnace
• Bathroom skylights
• Fiberglass insulation
• Better roof with 3/8 inch decking
• Multiple decor to choose from and build the RV based on your liking.
• Powered stabilizing jacks for the trailer
• Sleeping capacity of 4 to 6 people
• 7 cub ft. sized refrigerator

You can also go optional 3 cooktop burner and otehr addiional features than will increase the overall pricing.

• Fresh water tank capacity : 27 gallons
• Gray tank capacity : 28 gallons
• Black tank capacity : 28 gallons

Its length stands at around 21 feet.

The camper comes with a decent-sized bathroom but does not have a sink because of the larger bunk sizes. The kitchen features a two-burner stove, a smaller 3.3 cubic foot refrigerator, and an overhead microwave. The unit has an AC unit hanging off the side and doesn’t have an enclosed underbelly.

When it comes to size dimensions, this is one of the shortest trailers in our list , so if you have a garage that you want to fit a trailer in, this camper is only 8.8-inches.

This travel trailer is relatively cheaper than the most model, so it is an ideal option if you are searching for a basic unit that can be purchased for less.

6. Winnebago Micro Minnie

When it comes to RVs, one name that always comes into mind is Winnebago . Their Winnebago Micro Minnie travel trailer is the benchmark that the other manufacturers assess themselves against.

The unit comes with twelve different floor plans and three different exterior colors to choose from. Eight of the twelve layout plans place the dinette on a slide-out to upsurge the interior space.

The Micro Minnie sounds small, but that’s only in name.

Its various models have lengths ranging between 19.2 to 25.5 feet and 2980 to 4260 dry weight. This makes it one of the most massive cargo in terms of capacity.

Its seven-foot width enables you to tow the travel unit without the need to use side mirror extensions. Even more, this camper comes with an entertainment package that rivals the one at home.

It has interior and exterior speakers , a large LED, and a stereo system with USB, FM, and AM, DVD, CD, and Bluetooth capabilities to keep the camping lively.

This is light weight an compact camper and yet the features aren’t compromised. The space is utilized nicely and its a great travel trailer for a small family and even retired couple. Price for this travel trailer starts at $21,800.

There are 11 floor plans to choose from. Since people have different needs its awesome and you can make the trailer as per your requirements.

Key Feature: .

• Awning length between 10′ to 13′
• Spacious kitchen with sink, microwave and cooktop
• Wide mattress with good ventilation windows
• Choose storage accordingly to you needs in 11 different floorplans
• 7 feet wide trailer that is great for kids.
• Great technology features like USB charging, wifi prep, wireless mobile charging
• Sleeping capacity is 3 to 5 people

Fresh and holding Tank Capacity

• Fresh water tank capacity : 31 gallons
• Gray tank capacity: 25 gallons
• Black tank capacity : 25 gallons

A very good fresh water capacity makes it easier for boondocking with this travel trailer.

Winnebago incorporated this camper with every electronic convenience you will ever need.

It is already pre wired for the rear camera, solar and satellite. They have also included a power tongue jack to help with leveling and detaching. The efficient heating system prevents the water from freezing during cold weather tours.

When it comes to interior design, this Micro Minnie is modern, stylish, and sturdy to endure the weather elements.

It has a wood laminate above plywood flooring and single surface, rounded edges countertops. The cabinetry is strong enough to withstand the weight of your belongings, and the drawers easily extend out for complete usage.

7. Forrest River R-Pod

Forrest River R-Pod is one of the well-known travel trailers manufacturers which became famous for its incredibly lightweight trailer build. It is one of the best quality lightweight travel trailer under 5000 lbs

With a weight of 2756 lbs, those looking for a versatile and lightweight trailer will want to look into this Forrest River R-Pod Hood River 179m model.

Its small and lightweight design means that it is easy to tow with an SUV or truck. While this travel trailer has a length of 20 inches, it sleeps up to four and has a great design. It has everything you require for a camping excursion.

There are multiple models under this brand that weigh less than 5000 lbs. Slide out in this trailer makes it bigger and is a perfect RV for a family of 3-4.

• It is equipped with a 3 Way refrigerator
• USB porting charge points
• vent fan maxAir for better air circulation
• Insulation of R-9 fr floor and roof. Sidewalls has R-7 insulation
• Bathroom, bedroom are given god features like collapsible hangers, shower with curtain
• LED taillights
• is provided with 4 stabilizing jacks
• 20,000 BTU furnace
• Sleeping capacity of 4 people

Fresh water and holding tank capacity

• Fresh water capacity : 28 gallons

Apart from the features and amenities we saw above there all the standard items you would expect. Its a perfect small travel trailer for anyone looking for at a reasonable price.

Also, several floorpan makes it easier for you too choose the right RV and you won’t have to make any further changes to it.

R-pod is suitable for small family and if you are a large group of people then its not the one.

This RV has an open floor plan that includes a kitchen, a sitting area, a dining area, and a sleeping area. As with most travel trailer models, the Hood River dining area can quickly transform into a sleeping area if necessary for larger families or extra visitors.

The kitchen features a two-burner stovetop, a sink, a refrigerator, and a microwave. A 20,000 BTU furnace keeps you warm in the winter.

The sleeping area has a queen bed that can accommodate two. One of the shortcomings of this travel trailer is the wet bathroom. The shower is very close to everything to save space meaning everything within the restroom will get wet.

As compared to other stated companies, Forrest River began its manufacturing later in 1996, and they have already produced one of the best RVs that many use today.

8. Dutchmen RV Aspen Trail LE

If you are looking for a travel trailer for an all-round season use in particularly harsh climatic conditions, the Dutchmen Aspen Trail LE 1950BH is a perfect choice.

This trailer provides all the great features of Aspen Trail models but in a compact and smaller package that is easier to tow on your vehicle with a weight of as little as 3815 pounds .

The unique layout plan that features a queen-sized bed at the front and two bunk beds at the rear make the 1950BH an excellent choice for families and small camping groups.

With a length of 23’5”, this trailer features one of the biggest bathrooms and a comfortable dry shower available for a trailer of this size.

There are multiple models/floorplans under this brand that are below 5000 lbs.

• Grate insulation for floor/roof
• Much better cooling
• back campers prep
• Solar installation prep
• LED lighting
• Equipped with Stabilizer jacks
• Power awning with LED lighting
• TPO roof with 3/8″ decking
• Awning length : 10 feet
• Refrigerator size : 7 cu. ft

Water capacity

Fresh water tank capacity : 27 gallons Holding tank capacity : 28 gallons

When it comes to dining and cooking, the Aspen Trail LE 1950BH has everything you require to prepare a delicious meal on the road.

Its Kitchenette is outfitted with a galley sink, a six cubic foot refrigerator, a microwave, and a two-burner cooktop. More so, its dinette is sufficiently spacious, providing a great place to relax and hang out at the end of the day.

As far as the winter season is concerned, you don’t have to be worried about this trailer. It comes with an 18,000 BTU furnace , a water heater plus underbelly heating to keep you warm throughout the night.

During the summer, a small outdoor kitchen system allows you to grill and relax outdoors in the sun. In general, this trailer is one of the best lightweight trailers out there about everything you need for your camping escalades.

9. Coachmen Freedom Express Ultra Lite

Coachmen Freedom Express 195 RBS is yet another ultra-lite, affordable travel trailer with lots of unique features that will impress you.

This trailer comes with extra features that are only available in bigger floorplans. The camper features tons of storage with built-in cabinetry throughout the unit. This makes it a perfect choice if you plan to go camping for an extended period, or you’re concerned about limited storage space.

• Power awning
• Ducted air conditioning
• Ducted furnace
• Ultra light travel trailer with multiple floor plans to choose from
• Length varies from 18 feet to 28 feet
• Solid construction that provides great insulation for winter cold

One of the unique features of this layout plan is the hideaway queen Murphy bed in a slide behind the sofa.

This does not consume any of the space in the main living area hence makes the camper roomy. The sofa has a high –quality and cozy feel, with theatre-style seating for two. Across the sofa is a fantastic entertainment center with a pop-up TV that is both stylish and space-saving.

In front of the camper is an ample U-shaped dining space that is huge enough for meals and game nights. A big window behind the dinette allows you to have incredible views as you relax and enjoy your meal.

In case you require an extra sleeping space, the dinette easily converts into a spacious bed for two. The bathroom is also sufficiently big with a toilet, shower, and sinks. A nice touch of stylish and beautiful herringbone pattern in the shower cannot go unnoticed.

In the kitchen, everything that you require to prepare meals during your adventures is available. It has a spacious double sink featuring an elegant faucet.

A stovetop oven, a fridge, and a microwave complete this extensive kitchen. Above the kitchen is a great storage space for your food and kitchen items. The last feature that you will surely love about this Freedom Express trailer is an outdoor kitchen and a pantry that you will enjoy using.

10. Braxton Creek

If you want a travel trailer with one of the best possible weight-to-length ratios, then the Braxton Creek BX-22QB should be your choice as it can span up to 25’5″ and still maintain the GVWR under 5000 pounds.

This model provides the industry-best huge and 81-inch ceiling height wardrobe in an easy to tow and lightweight trailer.

Immediately you get into the trailer; you will be amazed by the room divider that offers privacy to the front sleeping area.

The charming space features a queen bed, spacious closets, and several windows to allow in the cool evening breeze. The overhead shelves provide you with more space to place your items.

• Awesome storage in extendable cabinets
• Great headroom for tall people as well
• Great bedroom design with modern design wardrobes
• entry steps designed nicely and also has assist handle
• Provided with roof access ladder
• Dometic furnace
• LED lights in the interior
• Aerodynamic design makes its easy to tow behind a car

This model comes with a bathroom that has abundant counter space and a large tub, which you will rarely find in travel trailers under 5000 pounds. Along with the toilet and sink, the bathroom is comfortable enough for weekend walkaways or extended camping tours.

The BX-22QB makes cooking a breeze. It has a spacious kitchen equipped with a three burner range, pantry, double sink, an oven, a microwave, and a large fridge.

After you get through with your daytime exploration, there is a cozy living space with a comfortable sofa and large dinette to hang out, relax, and sleep. If you like relaxing outdoors, this model includes an automatic sixteen-foot awning that offers excellent shade during the hot afternoons.

Why get a lightweight travel trailer

One of the key things to look in a travel trailer is the weight. There are obvious reasons why one should get a light weight RV. Check out my detailed article on average weight of a travel trailer .

When the RV is to be towed behind a car or truck its more important that it is not exceeding the limits of weight rating. Here are some reasons to get a low weight travel trailer.

Easy To Tow

It may not be easy to tow them behind a car or truck. A heavier trailer means added stress while driving. It also means your car mileage will be reduced. The more weight on a travel trailer means you spend more on your daily expenses.

Restricted Travel

Bigger travel trailer or heavy travel trailer means you are restricted in where you can go. You cant go off roading much with heavier trailer.

Better for Minimalist Life

If you are looking for a minimalist approach to living in RV then having a light weight travel trailer is the way to go. Its a simple approach to follow if you want to live a minimalist life.

More Enjoyment With light weight

You can enjoy a lot more when you own a light weight, smaller RV in general.

Parking Issue : You can avoid the parking hustle when you own a light weight or smaller travel trailer.

Difficulty in Turning

Longer, heavier travel trailer invites unnecessary travel hazards specially while making turns and u turns.

More Maintenance

You need better hitches and towing equipment with a heavier trailer. A lot more maintenance and attention is also needed.

There is no doubt a heavier trailer means more work for you and therefore getting a light weight is a better option.

Car capacity to tow a travel trailer

Before you own a travel trailer its important to find out if your car can tow that trailer successfully or not. With 5000 lbs you should be okay with most SUVs. If you own a small car than make sure you know the car’s exact towing capacity.

Below are some of the best cars that can tow travel trailers under 5000 lbs:

• Jeep Grand Cherokee : has towing capacity of 6200 lbs
• Toyota Sequoia : has towing capacity of 7400 lbs
• Nissan Pathfinder : has towing capacity of 6200 lbs
• Ford Explorer : has towing capacity of 5000 lbs
• Toyota Highlander : has towing capacity of 5000 lbs
• GMC Yukon : has towing capacity of 8500 lbs

Travel trailers can also be towed by trucks. Pick up Trucks have much higher towing capacity. Even then make sure you know the trucks ability before using it to pull your 5000 lb travel trailer. Here are some of the popular and capable trucks that can tow 5000 lbs trailers.

• Ford F-150 : towing capacity from 4900 to 12,200 lbs
• Chevy canyon : towing capacity upto 7000 lbs
• Nissan Titan XD : towing capacity upto 12,500 lbs
• Ram 150 : towing capacity upto 9290 lbs
• Nissan Frontier : towing capacity of upto 6700 lbs

Not sure on which travel trailer to choose?

If you think the features you get in these travel trailers under 5000 lbs aren’t good enough then you can expand your search for other categories like under 6000 lbs or 7000 lbs.

Also, if the weight is too much for your car or truck then look for less weighing trailers under 4000 lbs or 3000 lbs. There are several small travel trailers that weigh less.

Understand Trailer Weights

Its important to understand the weight terminology in travel trailers. You should know the towing capacity of your towing vehicle and also all the important weight parameters of your trailer .

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) : This is the maximum loaded weight of the travel trailer. Each travel trailer is given this weight that shouldn’t be exceeded. This is basically the most a trailer can weigh as per manufacturer.

Dry Weight : This is the total weight of the RV without any fluids, passenger or added items. Usually when you get the RV from the manufacturer this is the weight that you see. This weight is included all the standard features the RV comes with.

UVW (Unloaded vehicle Weight) : This is the weight of the RV at the manufacturer. This not include standard equipment or cargo.

Tongue weight : This is the weight that comes down on the trailer hitch ball. This is ideally need to be 10-15% of the GTW.

If you own a half-ton vehicle or an SUV and you are seeking to offer a comfortable travel and camping experience to your family or friends, travel trailers under 5000 pounds are the perfect option for you. The above-reviewed travel trailers are some of the best options in the market and will give you a solid base in your search. Purchasing anyone these travel trailers will not get you disappointed.

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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

Travel Trailer Built to Last: Taxa Cricket

• 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!

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Written by Johnathan R. Smith • August 31, 2019 • 5:08 am • Travel Trailers

Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs.

If you’re looking for a travel trailer that you can take with you by hooking it up to your vehicle, the trailer’s weight will likely be one of the most significant concerns. If you have an SUV or half-ton vehicle, you should be looking at travel trailers that weigh less than 5,000 pounds.

These types of travel trailers are often larger than fifth wheels and provide enough space for a small family to sleep comfortably. Below, we’ve taken the time to compile the six best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs.

No matter if you are a first-time buyer or are looking to upgrade your existing equipment, we believe you can benefit from the models on our list.

The Six Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs. 

• Airstream Sport
• KZ Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer
• Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer
• Starcraft Satellite 18MK
• Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer
• Keystone Passport Travel Trailer

How We Selected These Trailers

When constructing the list of the six best travel trailers under 5,000 pounds, there were a few things we needed to consider. First and foremost, we limited our search to those with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 5,000 pounds.

The GVWR is maximum weight that the trailer should weigh at all time when considering all factors, including:

• Optional equipment

Some in the industry refer to GVWR as the Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight, so know that the two terms are synonymous. The dry weight is how much the trailer weighs with standard equipment without the criteria bulleted above. The figure essentially refers to how much the trailer weighs when released by the manufacturer.

First-time purchasers often find themselves confused by this. You should make sure that the payload capacity of your vehicle can tow the GVWR, not the dry weight. Unless, of course, you don’t plan to travel with anything in your RV, which we highly doubt is the case.

You’ll find that every trailer on our list is light enough for a half-ton vehicle or SUV or tow it with ease.

Because we also wanted to provide our readers with the most up-to-date models, we tried to limit ourselves to those produced within the past couple of years. We also compared ratings and online reviews of the trailers to ensure we were providing you with quality options.

Finally, we considered how much room the trailers offered, as well as any amenities available in the vehicles.

1. Airstream Sport

A Lightweight Camper with a Retro Design

The Airstream Sport is one of the best travel trailers available on the market today. The aluminum exterior helps reduce weight considerably. Although some may find the Airstream Sport a bit tight, we believe that its efficient use of space and modern amenities make it worthwhile.

Why We Recommend the Airstream Sport

The Airstream Sport features a unique, retro design. Airstream has been manufacturing for more than eight decades. Although it may appear that the exterior of their travel trailers may not have changed much over the years, you should not judge a book by its cover.

An aluminum exterior yields to a luxurious interior that should make for a comfortable camping experience.

Although the Sport is a compact trailer, it manages to pack a punch and make the most of its space. Airstream made sure to maximize every inch inside of the Sport, allowing it to sleep up to four people. Inside, campers will find a fully-functioning kitchen, dining area, sitting area, bathroom, and bedroom. The camper features modern amenities like a sleek gas stovetop and a porcelain toilet.

The Sport also comes with a Solar Pre-wire Kit. Customers could choose to upgrade to solar capabilities easily. We liked that Airstream considered modern upgrades such as this, which would provide campers with a renewable energy source and allow them to stay off the grid for longer.

Campers will also find both an air conditioner and an auxiliary heat strip, allowing them to stay comfortable year-round.

Key Features

• Two floor plans available
• Sleeps up to four
• Exterior Length = 16’ 4”
• Exterior Width = 8’
• Interior Width = 7’ 7”
• Maximum Trailer Capacity = 3,500 pounds
• Fresh Water Tank = 23 gallons

2. KZ Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer

A Simple Trailer That Provides Campers with the Basics

The Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer from KZ is a simple, affordable trailer that is ideal for first-time campers. There are eight floorplans available, allowing campers to select the model that best fits their camping needs.

Why We Recommend the KZ Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer

Even though the Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer may feature a simple design, it proves large enough to fit families of up to five. It is one of the only travel trailers under 5,000 pounds that offers bunkbed floorplans. Typically, customers gain access to bunkbeds only when looking at luxurious Class A, Class B, or Class C motorhomes .

Insider, campers will find a rustic, outdoor design with beautiful hardwood floors and cabinets. The countertop and kitchen sink in this travel trailer is more substantial than average. It is big enough to use as a cutting space for fruits, vegetables, and meats. The sink is large enough to wash pots and pitchers without awkward maneuvering.

We also liked some of the safety and security features that KZ put into this trailer. For instance, the Sportsmen Classic operates with one lock key for all applications. Furthermore, standard industry keys will not unlock entry doors or storage compartments.

The company also offers an incredible 12-year warranty on the aluminum roofing featured on the trailer.

• Eight floor plans available, as well as an off-road upgrade
• Sleeps up to five
• Exterior Length = Up to 23’ 2”
• Exterior Height = 78”
• Exterior Width = Up to 90”
• Maximum Trailer Capacity = Between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds
• Fresh Water Tank = Up to 32 gallons

3. Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer

The Ideal Travel Trailer for Families

The Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer from Coachmen is another travel trailer that provides campers with access to bunk beds. With an exterior length of nearly 21.5 feet and an exterior height of nearly ten feet, this trailer is large enough to fit the entire family comfortably.

Why We Recommend the Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer

We liked the Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailers as an option for families for a few reasons. First and foremost, the camper comes with three beds, making for a comfortable sleeping experience. Furthermore, the trailer has residential countertops that are laminated to protect against spills.

Lastly, the linoleum in the trailer is 100 percent adhesion residential grade.

We also liked the fact that Coachmen gave their customers access to numerous upgrades. For instance, campers can choose to install both 40 and 80-watt Zamp portable solar panels. They could also opt to install a Bed End Fan Light. There are also numerous safety features available for upgrade, such as a Smart Jack, Spare Tire, and Carrier.

Customers could also opt for the “All Terrain Package” upgrade.

It’s critical to note that every floorplan in the Clipper Ultra-Lite Line features a Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight below 5,000 pounds. The 14R, 16FB, and 17CBH are all models that we liked that also met our standard of being below 5,000 pounds GVWR.

However, with 13 floor plans available, you’ll want to double-check to confirm that your vehicle can tow the Ultra-Lite model that you choose.

• 13 floor plans available, although not all are sub-5,000 pounds
• Exterior Length = Up to 25’ 6”
• Exterior Height = Up to 9’ 8”
• Exterior Width = Up to 96”
• Maximum Trailer Capacity = 3,803 pounds is the heaviest option that does not exceed 5,000 lbs
• Fresh Water Tank = Up to 40 gallons

4. Starcraft Satellite 18MK

A Compact Model with Modern Luxuries

The Starcraft Satellite 18MK is a bit compact, with an interior height measuring just 78.” However, campers will find fantastic amenities inside, making it a worthwhile option for small families or groups who don’t need to sleep more than four.

Why We Recommend the Starcraft Satellite 18MK

For those who are looking for a travel trailer that they can take anywhere without having to worry about excess bulk, this could be the ideal option. Starcraft built the Satellite exceptionally well, providing things like electric brakes, fiberglass roof installation, and fiberglass floor installation.

The trailer also features a moisture-barrier material on the main floor, increasing its durability.

Inside, the camper features both cable and satellite hookups. It also has centrally-located switches and a 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit. In addition to a sink, stove top, and microwave in the kitchen, campers also have access to a large refrigerator and an abundance of storage space. The interior of the trailer is sleek, featuring “Poise Brindle” leather, “Rain Dance” flooring, and “Barrington Espresso” cabinets.

Customers could also choose from multiple upgrade packages when purchasing this trailer. For instance, the Extreme Package comes with off-road mud tires and additional ground clearance. It also has a double-entry step, which is necessary because of the added height.

The Extreme Package also features an underbelly that is heated and enclosed.

• One floor plan
• Exterior Length = 22’ 3”
• Exterior Height = 117”
• Exterior Width = 76.6”
• Maximum Trailer Capacity = 3,950 pounds
• Fresh Water Tank = 31 gallons

5. Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer

The Ultra-Light Model Perfect for Weekend Trips

Those in search of a lightweight, versatile trailer will want to look into this model from Forest River . There are nine different models from which you can choose, with floor plans that sleep from between two and four people.

Why We Recommend the Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer

The R-Pod Travel Trailer by Forest River is one of the more unique travel trailers that we’ve encountered. Forest River says that this trailer has the lowest tow weight in its class. The compact design expands to provide campers with significantly more space.

Campers have access to a wet bath, dry bath, and designer Carefree flooring.

There is also a water heater and a state-of-the-art recessed cooktop that comes with a flush mount glass cover. Customers also have access to a three-way refrigerator that can handle gas, electric, and 12V inputs. Additionally, there is a 20,0000 BTU furnace that enables campers to use the trailer in the winter.

Forest River also thought of pets when crafting this design, as the trailer features a frame-mounted utility hook with space for good and water bowls.

Campers also have the option to upgrade their trailer. For instance, the 10 th Anniversary package comes with pleated night shades, an EZ Glide dinette table, and a Furrion Bluetooth Stereo.

• Nine floor plans
• Exterior Length = 20’
• Exterior Height = 9’ 7”
• Exterior Width = 96”
• Fresh Water Tank = 36 gallons

6. Keystone Passport Travel Trailer

Options to Meet Every Camper’s Needs

The Passport Travel Trailer from Keystone has more than 31 floor plans, ensuring that campers will find the layout that best suits their family’s needs.

Why We Recommend the Keystone Passport Travel Trailer

We not only recommended this trailer because of its numerous floor plans but also because of how enjoyable it can be for outdoor use. For instance, the vehicles come standard with exterior speakers, patio entrance light, and LED awning lights.

Inside, campers will find residential-style furniture, allowing their camper to feel like a “home away from home.” A 30,000 BTU furnace provides incredible heating power, while a 13,5000 BTU air conditioner can help keep campers cool in the summer.

• 31 floor plans
• Sleeps up to ten
• Exterior Length = Up to 37’
• Exterior Height = Roughly 10’ 4.”
• Maximum Trailer Capacity = The lowest is 3,160 pounds
• Fresh Water Tank = 43 gallons

Conclusion on Trailers Under 5000 Pounds

If you have an SUV or half-ton vehicle and are looking to provide a comfortable camping experience for your family, you’ll want to consider a travel trailer that has a Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight that does not exceed 5,000 pounds.

We feel that our list of the six best travel trailers under 5,000 pounds is an excellent guide and that you will be satisfied when choosing any of the options on our list.

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The 6 Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs For The Money

Lightweight travel trailers are a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who love to travel and camp. They offer many advantages, including easy towing, fuel efficiency, affordability, and flexibility.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie to the RV lifestyle, a lightweight travel trailer under 5,000 lbs is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy, convenient, and affordable way to explore the great outdoors.

With so many different travel trailers under 5,000 lbs on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the top 6 best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs. These trailers offer a great combination of craftsmanship, features, amenities, and value for the money.

Advantages of a Travel Trailer Under 5000 Lbs

Who should consider a travel trailer under 5,000 lbs, 1. forest river r-pod, 2. airstream bambi, 3. jayco hummingbird, 4. gulf stream vista cruiser, 5. scamp trailers, 6. oliver legacy elite.

Lightweight travel trailers under 5,000 lbs offer a variety of advantages. They are designed to be easier to tow and less expensive than their heavier counterparts, making them a great choice for first-time RVers and those with smaller vehicles.

Here are the key benefits of small travel trailers under 5,000 Lbs:

• Easy to tow:  Lightweight travel trailers are designed to be easier to tow because they weigh less than 5,000 lbs. This makes them ideal for first-time RVers and those who don’t have heavy-duty tow vehicles. A wider range of vehicles, including SUVs, minivans, and crossover vehicles, can comfortably tow trailers in this weight class.
• Fuel-efficient:  The lighter weight of lightweight travel trailers also translates into better fuel efficiency. Since they weigh less, they require less power to tow, which can result in significant savings on gas. This is especially important for RVers who plan to do a lot of traveling and want to keep their fuel costs down.
• Affordable:  Lightweight travel trailers are also more affordable than larger, heavier trailers. They typically cost less to purchase, maintain, and operate, making them a great choice for budget-minded RVers. They are also easier to finance, as they often require smaller down payments and have lower monthly payments than larger trailers.
• Versatile : Lightweight travel trailers come in a variety of styles and sizes, making them perfect for a wide range of camping needs. From small teardrop trailers that are easy to store to larger models with more living space and amenities, there’s a lightweight travel trailer out there for everyone. They also come in different floor plans, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
• Convenient : Lightweight travel trailers are also incredibly convenient, allowing you to bring all the comforts of home on the road. They typically include basic amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and storage space, making it easy to travel and camp in comfort. They also offer a sense of privacy and security, as you can lock the doors and windows when you’re inside.
• Flexible: Another advantage of lightweight travel trailers under 5,000 lbs is their flexibility. You can take them just about anywhere, whether it’s for a weekend camping trip, a longer vacation, or even as a permanent home on the road. They’re also easy to set up and take down, so you can change locations quickly and easily. Lightweight travel trailers are also more maneuverable and easier to park than larger trailers. This makes them ideal for camping in tight spaces or exploring scenic backroads.
• Easy to store: These travel trailers are also easier to store than larger trailers. They take up less space and can be stored in a variety of locations, such as a garage, driveway, or RV storage facility. They’re also easier to winterize, requiring less preparation and maintenance to protect them from the elements.

Lightweight travel trailers under 5,000 lbs are a popular choice for a wide range of individuals and families looking for a convenient and versatile way to travel and enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s a breakdown of who should consider purchasing a travel trailer in this weight category:

First-time RVers: Lightweight travel trailers are often recommended for first-time RVers because they’re relatively easy to tow and park. They’re also typically more affordable than larger trailers, making them a great way to get started in RVing without breaking the bank.

Small families: Small families, especially those with one or two children, find lightweight travel trailers to be ideal. These trailers offer enough sleeping and living space for a family without being too cumbersome to tow.

Couples: Couples seeking a comfortable and cozy travel experience often opt for smaller travel trailers. The lighter weight of lightweight trailers makes them more maneuverable and allows for a more intimate and enjoyable travel experience for two.

Solo travelers: Individuals who enjoy solo RV adventures can benefit from the ease of towing a lightweight travel trailer. It allows for independence and flexibility in travel plans.

Tow vehicle considerations: Those who have smaller tow vehicles with lower towing capacities may need to choose a travel trailer under 5,000 lbs to ensure safe and efficient towing.

Budget-conscious travelers: Smaller travel trailers are often more affordable than their larger counterparts, both in terms of the initial purchase price and ongoing operational costs, such as fuel and campsite fees.

Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

The Forest River R-Pod trailer is a compact and lightweight travel trailer that is ideal for individuals or small families looking for a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the outdoors.

One of the standout features of the R-Pod is its aerodynamic design, which not only looks sleek but also helps to improve fuel efficiency on the road. The interior is well-designed and feels spacious despite the trailer’s compact size. The R-Pod comes standard with many modern amenities such as a full kitchen, bathroom with shower, and a comfortable sleeping area.

The R-Pod is built with quality materials and is well-constructed, making it a durable option for those who plan to use it regularly. The trailer is also equipped with a variety of storage options, including overhead compartments, wardrobes, and under-bed storage, so you can bring along all of your necessary gear.

The Forest River R-Pod is a solid choice for those in the market for a compact and well-appointed travel trailer. With its quality construction, modern amenities, and aerodynamic design, the R-Pod is sure to provide its owners with many memorable outdoor adventures.

The Airstream Bambi is a compact and stylish travel trailer that offers a unique and comfortable travel experience. With its aerodynamic design, it’s easy to tow and can be pulled by most mid-sized SUVs. The exterior of the Bambi is made of lightweight and durable aluminum, and features clean lines and modern design elements that set it apart from other travel trailers.

The interior of the Bambi is designed with comfort in mind, offering comfortable sleeping arrangements for a family of four, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable dining area. The modern design features quality fixtures and durable finishes, and there is plenty of storage space to keep your belongings organized and accessible. Additionally, the Bambi is equipped with a range of features designed to make life on the road as easy and convenient as possible, including a solar panel, a built-in generator, and a full entertainment system.

The Bambi is also designed with technology in mind, and features built-in LED lighting, a sound system, and a smart control system that allows you to control various aspects of the trailer from your phone or tablet. It also has a large panoramic window that provides a great view of the surroundings, and can be opened for fresh air and natural light.

This small camper can be used as a weekend getaway or as a full-time home on the road. With its compact size and light weight, it can be taken to remote locations where larger RVs might not be able to go, while still offering all the comforts of home. Whether you’re looking to take a weekend getaway or embark on a long-term adventure, the Bambi is definitely worth considering.

The Jayco Hummingbird is a small and lightweight travel trailer that’s perfect for those who love to explore and travel in comfort. With its compact design and easy towing capabilities, the Hummingbird is the ideal choice for solo travelers or small families. The trailer offers a range of features designed to make life on the road as convenient and comfortable as possible, without sacrificing style or quality.

Despite its small size, the Hummingbird packs in plenty of amenities and comfortable living space, making it perfect for extended road trips or weekend getaways. The interior is modern and well-appointed, with high-quality fixtures, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable dining area. The sleeping arrangements are also top-notch, with comfortable beds and ample storage space.

In addition to its interior features, the Hummingbird also offers a range of outdoor amenities. The exterior is designed for maximum functionality, with a sturdy aluminum frame, an outdoor kitchen, and a spacious awning for outdoor living. The trailer also has a built-in generator and a full entertainment system, making it easy to stay connected and entertained while on the road.

The Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser is a popular line of travel trailers that are known for their spacious interiors, high-end features, and a good value for money. These trailers are available in various lengths and floor plans, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

These trailers come with plenty of headroom and legroom, making them ideal for taller individuals. They also have a number of windows, which allow for plenty of natural light and great views. Additionally, the trailers come with high-end features such as a full kitchen, comfortable seating, and a bathroom with a shower.

The trailers are built with a sleek and aerodynamic design, which makes them easy to tow and handle on the road. They also come with a number of exterior storage compartments, which make it easy to keep your camping gear and other essentials organized.

Another great aspect of the Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser is its build quality. These trailers are constructed with high-quality materials and are designed to last for years. The body of the trailer is made from strong and durable materials, and the roof and floor are reinforced to ensure that they can handle the weight of the interior components.

Scamp Trailers are well-known in the world of travel trailers for their high-quality construction and unique design. These trailers are built to be lightweight and easy to tow, making them a popular choice for those who like to hit the road and explore new places. They are available in various sizes, ranging from 13 feet to 21 feet, so there’s something for everyone, regardless of your needs.

The interiors of Scamp trailers are simple yet functional, with all the essentials one might need on a camping trip. They feature comfortable sleeping arrangements, a small kitchenette with a sink and a stove, and a compact bathroom. The trailers also come equipped with a number of storage compartments, which make it easy to keep everything organized and within reach.

Despite the small size, these trailers are built to last and are designed to withstand the rigors of the road. The body of the trailer is constructed from fiberglass, which is a strong and lightweight material, and the roof and floor are reinforced to ensure that they are sturdy enough to handle the weight of the interior components.

The Oliver Legacy Elite Travel Trailer is a high-end travel trailer that provides luxury and comfort on the road. Its exterior features a sleek and modern design, with attention to detail in the construction and finish. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with high-end amenities and materials that make it feel like a home away from home.

One of the standout features of the Oliver Legacy Elite is the full kitchen and bathroom, which are both well-equipped and feature top-of-the-line appliances and fixtures. The living area is comfortable and inviting, with ample seating and a large entertainment center. The sleeping quarters are comfortable and cozy, with plush bedding and ample storage.

In terms of performance, the Oliver Legacy Elite is designed to provide a smooth and stable ride, even on rough terrain. The chassis is solid and the construction is top-notch, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for those who love to travel. The insulation and climate control systems are also top-notch, ensuring a comfortable environment regardless of the weather outside.

Overall, the Oliver Legacy Elite Travel Trailer is a high-end choice that is well worth the investment for those who want a light-weight yet luxury travel experience. It provides all the comforts of home and is built to last, making it a great choice for frequent travelers and adventure seekers alike.

About The Author

David Kelly

David Kelly is the founder of Effortless RVing. He is an accomplished writer and passionate traveler who specializes in the RV lifestyle. With a keen eye for undiscovered gems and a love for adventure, David's articles provide a unique and insightful perspective on camping and RV travel. As a former Sales Manager at Camping World, David is dedicated to staying up-to-date with new trends in RV world and the ever-changing landscape of RV travel, making him a valuable resource for both experienced enthusiasts and newcomers to the lifestyle. Whether you're looking for RV product reviews, tips, inspiration, or a glimpse into the camping lifestyle, David's sharing posts are a must-read.

One Response

I think you have missed the mark on exploring well made small trailers under 5,000 lbs. You did not bring the T@B trailer into this article.

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Best Family Travel Trailers Under 4500 Pounds

Trailer Specs

• Dry Weight:  3,078 pounds
• Length:  21’5″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 5

Featuring rear bunks for the kids and a queen bed for the parents, the Coleman Lantern LT 17B is one of the most affordable travel trailers out there. This lightweight travel trailer is easy to tow and can be towed by various vehicles.

It features an electric fireplace, an air conditioning unit, a full-size dinette, and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s also a dry bathroom in the rear, abundant storage under the bottom bunk, and a high-rise faucet over the single-basin kitchen sink.

Check out Lantern LT 17B models at your local Camping World.

Coleman Lantern LT 202RD

• Dry Weight:  4,444 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  594 pounds
• Length:  24’11”
• Height (w/ AC): 10’10”
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 4

The Coleman Lantern LT 202RD is a great family travel trailer because it features a queen bed in the master suite, located at the front of the floorplan. At the back of the trailer, it offers a convertible dinette and a reclining sofa for the kids or guests to sleep on.

The center kitchen features a 10 cubic foot refrigerator, a two-burner cooktop with an oven below, and a microwave. This travel trailer also features power stabilizing jacks and a power tongue jack that make it easy to level and stabilize your RV when you arrive at a campground.

Shop Camping World’s Lantern LT 202RD inventory.

Forest River Wolf Pup 16BHS

• Dry Weight:  3,367 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  460 pounds
• Length:  21’9″
• Height (w/ AC): 10’6″

The Forest River Wolf Pup 16BHS is a bunkhouse travel trailer with a family-friendly floorplan. The kids have rear bunks to rest in, and you’ll enjoy a queen-sized bed at the front of the trailer with an overhead shelf for your phone, books, and other small items.

There’s a TV mount above the convertible dinette and a second mounting location on the RV’s exterior. If you mount a TV out there, you won’t miss a second of the action as you lounge underneath the 12-foot power awning. As a bonus, you’ll have a mini fridge accessible in an exterior compartment, so you don’t have to go inside to restock your favorite beverages.

Check out Forest River Wolf Pup models at your local Camping World.

Heartland Mallard Tailwind T180BH

• Dry Weight:  3,949 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  490 pounds
• Length:  22’5.5″
• Height (w/ AC): 10’4″
• Sleeping Capacity:  5-6

Heartland’s Mallard Tailwind T180BH is another bunkhouse model with a modified Murphy bed system to maximize the interior space during the day. It also features a great outdoor kitchen that allows you to split meal prep, so it doesn’t feel cramped inside when cooking.

The double bunks feature queen-sized RV mattresses, the Murphy bed is a queen, and the dinette converts for added sleeping space. Although that would make for a crowded RV with only one bathroom, there is a privacy curtain that allows you to section off the “master suite” from the rest of your trailer.

Discover Camping World’s Heartland Mallard Tailwind selection.

Coleman Light 1905BH

• Dry Weight:  4,486 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  602 pounds
• Length:  23’11”
• Height (w/ AC): 10’8″
• Sleeping Capacity:  3-6

Featuring aluminum framed construction and loaded with amenities, the Coleman Light 1905BH might be lightweight, but it’s heavy on durability. This is the heaviest of the RVs on this list, but it’s full of features that make it perfect for camping with a large family.

We’re talking power stabilizer jacks, a power awning, a slide-out dinette, a queen-size Murphy bed, and pass-through storage for all your recreation equipment and camping gear . Plus, folding up the bed gives you plenty of living area when you all need to be inside on rainy days.

In other words, it’s large enough for the whole family and all the memories you’ll make along the way. Consider it the mama bear of RVs. It’s not too big, but it’s not too small either. It’s just right.

Shop Coleman Light 1905BH RVs .

Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX

• Dry Weight: 3,749 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  430 pounds
• Length:  22’11”
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 7

The lightweight Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX offers a unique layout that transforms seating space by day into sleeping space at night by incorporating a fold-down, queen-size Murphy bed at the front.

When that bed is folded up, it offers plenty of living space with an open, carpet-free floorplan. At the back, two double bunk beds are perfect for the kids or for extra storage space when traveling as a couple .

The kitchen with a slide-out for the U-shape dinette features a panoramic window, so you’re never without a good view of your surroundings. Or you can ignore the indoor kitchen and cook all your meals in the outdoor kitchen instead. I’m sure no one will complain.

Shop Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX RVs .

Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE

• Dry Weight:  4,341 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 585 pounds
• Length:  26’9″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 6

It’s a space-saving family bunkhouse that is easy to fall in love with — the Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE . The Grey Wolf has perfected the transition from night to day by featuring a Cherokee Sleep System queen-size bed that can quickly and conveniently fold up to provide a full-size sofa.

Full-size bunks in the rear keep children and guests comfortable and provide space between sleeping areas. There’s also a fold-down dinette if you need additional sleeping space and a shower with a tub, which is a feature you don’t find in many RVs.

There are indoor and outdoor entertainment center hookups, so you never have to worry about anyone missing out on the fun. The Grey Wolf saves space so you can focus on making the most of the quality time spent with your family on the road.

Shop Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE .

Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH

• Dry Weight:  4,480 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 460 pounds
• Length:  27’1″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 8

The Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH is a fantastic unit for a family thanks to ample sleeping space, a spacious bathroom, plenty of storage, a camp side kitchen, and a large dinette for having family meals.

A curtain divider pulls across to separate the master bedroom from the rest of the trailer. So everyone can enjoy a little more privacy with this floorplan compared to what you’ll find in many other small campers .

There’s also an outside kitchen that helps keep the kids outside, so you don’t constantly have to clean the RV floor daily. This is another travel trailer under 5000 lbs., meaning you should be able to tow it with various vehicles.

Shop Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH RVs or explore Jayco’s entire RV lineup .

Crossroads Zinger-Lite 18BH

• Dry Weight: 3,362 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 426 pounds
• Length:  21′
• Height (w/ AC): 9’7″

Another good family camper under 5000 lbs. is the Crossroad Zinger 18BH . This high-quality trailer has a camp side kitchen, a dinette, bunk beds at the rear, and a queen bed at the front. It’s one of the more compact trailers on this list, but that makes it one of the lightest.

It’s prepped for a backup camera to make backing your trailer into a campsite easier. It’s also ready for a solar installation if you’re looking for a trailer that can handle extended boondocking stays.

The Zinger’s construction includes an aerodynamic front end and a rear bumper that’s perfect for securing one of the best bike racks for RVs . Plus, you’ll have the option of adding insulation if you’re interested in extending your camping season.

How to Choose the Best Family Travel Trailer for You

These small trailers are all about maximizing sleeping space for family RVing. You won’t get a king-size bed or theater seating like you might find in some of the best luxury fifth wheels . But you will get a comfortable camper at a much more affordable price.

Here are a few more resources to guide you as you continue your search for the perfect family travel trailer:

• Understanding RV Weight Ratings
• Everything You Need to Hitch & Tow Your RV
• How to Properly Load Your Travel Trailer

We hope these trailers and resources help you find the right camper for your family. Regardless of which RV you decide to hit the road with (and at which price point), the memories you make with your family will undoubtedly be priceless.

Do you have any lightweight travel trailers you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below!

• Comment (8)

Most travel trailers have an average dry weight of 5,000 pounds. Dry weight refers to the trailer’s weight without any additional gear or items.

Looking for a used trailer to sleep 6 while house is being remodeled

Here are a few additional links that might be helpful:

https://rv.campingworld.com/rvclass/used-travel-trailer-rvs

https://www.rvrentals.com/

https://blog.campingworld.com/find-your-rv/rv-buying-guide-buying-a-used-rv/

Hope that helps!

Absolutely, hands down the Lance 1995. A very practical high-end RV with so many practical extras !

Forest River R-Pod is an excellent travel trailer

Not the R-Pod 202…tons of interior storage with the new layout.

Marc, what one do you think is a good option?

R-pod is WAY too narrow. Lacks storage space.

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Travel Trailers

Last updated on: March 29, 2022

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

by Chris Coleman

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 2024-04-18 at 13:51.

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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.

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