Those looking to buy or rent a travel trailer should be well aware that weight is one of the most critical things that they need to consider. Unfortunately, we’ve heard from many people who say that they love camping, but they can’t find a quality trailer that they can tow with their car.
Many quality travel trailers are roughly 4,000 – 5,000 pounds, which is better suited for a half-ton vehicle or truck.
It doesn’t make much financial sense to buy both a travel trailer and a new vehicle meant explicitly to tow the camper. If you’re interested in doing that, you might as well look at a Class A motorhome that combines the two units into one. However, if you’re not looking to spend this much money on your camping hobby, you should instead check out lightweight travel trailers.
Manufacturers have begun designing ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 lbs. These units are significantly more towable than other models.
Minivans, mid-sized SUVs, and other similar vehicles should not have much of a problem towing a lightweight travel trailer. Below, we’ve compiled the five best ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 pounds available on the market today.
The Lightweight Trailer that Doesn’t Skimp on Luxuries
The Jayco Hummingbird is the perfect example of the fact that travel trailers can be both lightweight and spacious. Although there are eight floorplans available in the Hummingbird line, only the 10RK meets our requirements of having an unloaded weight less than 2,000 pounds.
A Luxury Trailer from a Reliable Manufacturer
If you’re looking for a comfortable camping experience, look no further than the Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Trailer from Forest River. Forest River is one of the most trusted and reputable manufacturers in the RV industry. Two of the eight available floorplans meet our weight criteria.
The Ideal Choice for Those Who Value Simplicity
The Ascape Travel Trailer from Aliner is an excellent option for those who appreciate simplicity. The vehicle is a mere 13 feet long and does not have a separate bedroom. It is very similar to a fifth wheel trailer, except for the fact that people can stand tall and the kitchen is inside the unit.
The Versatile Option for Adventure Enthusiasts
The TigerMoth Trek and the TigerMoth Camp Trailers are excellent options from TAXA Outdoors. Both models have a dry weight of fewer than 1,300 pounds, which means most four-wheel vehicles should be able to pull them without a problem.
An Affordable Camper for Beginners
It came as no surprise to see Forest River again appear on our list of the best ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 pounds. This affordable, lightweight camper is an excellent option for those who interested in making their first purchase.
The Best Travel Trailers Under 2,000 lbs
- Jayco Hummingbird Travel Trailer
- Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Trailer
- Aliner Ascape Travel Trailer
- TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth Travel Trailer
- Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro Travel Trailer
How We Selected These Ultra Lightweight Trailers
We understand our reader’s desire for quality camping equipment, which is why we sought to compile a list of the best ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 lbs. The models that we provided are some of the most lightweight on the market today. Each one of the campers that you’ll find listed below has a dry weight less than 2,000 pounds. However, we also wanted to make sure that we provided you with quality options. That’s why we tried to limit our search to those models produced within the last two years. Additionally, we decided to include travel trailers that featured luxury, modern amenities. Just because a camper is lightweight does not mean that customers need to sacrifice features. Lastly, we scoured online reviews and ratings to ensure we provided quality options, giving us a better idea of the quality and durability of the trailers. There were a couple of campers on the list that we initially liked but removed after reading ratings from other customers. We’re confident that the five options below are the best available on the market.1. Jayco Hummingbird Travel Trailer
The Lightweight Trailer that Doesn’t Skimp on Luxuries
The Jayco Hummingbird is the perfect example of the fact that travel trailers can be both lightweight and spacious. Although there are eight floorplans available in the Hummingbird line, only the 10RK meets our requirements of having an unloaded weight less than 2,000 pounds.
Why We Recommend the Jayco Hummingbird Travel Trailer
Even though this trailer is lightweight, it delivers space and quality amenities to its users. A folding 2′ x 4′ maximizes space when no one is eating. There is also an outside shower that helps create space inside of the vehicle. Customers should find themselves plenty warm inside of the trailer, thanks to an 18,000 BTU furnace and a six-gallon gas/electric DSI water heater. One of the other things that stood out to us about the Hummingbird was Jayco’s warranty plan. The company offers a two-year limited warranty on all of their vehicles. The warranty covers against all manufacturer’s defects in materials and workmanship. There is also a five-year warranty that covers defects in the lift system, floor, frame, and roof of the trailer. Customers also have the option to upgrade the package on their trailer. They can elect to add things such as 15” off-road Goodyear mud tires and aluminum rims. They could also opt to seal the underbelly of the unit with an additional layer of Astro-Foil Insulation. Electronic upgrades like a Furrion Portable Bluetooth speaker, roof-mounted solar panel, and 24” LED TV are also available.Key Features
- Sleeps two
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight = 1,545 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating = 2,000 pounds
- Exterior Length = 13′
- Exterior Width = 80”
- Interior Height = 53”
- Fresh Water Capacity = 25.6 gallons
2. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Trailer
A Luxury Trailer from a Reliable Manufacturer
If you’re looking for a comfortable camping experience, look no further than the Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Trailer from Forest River. Forest River is one of the most trusted and reputable manufacturers in the RV industry. Two of the eight available floorplans meet our weight criteria.
Why We Recommend the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro Travel Trailer
Our team was impressed with the two Forest River models that were under 2,000 pounds, the 12RK and the 12SRK. A slew of features that make this trailer suitable for long-term trips, including a multidirectional TV antenna, 12V TV with DVD player, and a stereo with both Bluetooth and USB. There is also an outside speaker and a Coleman stove/grill combo. Customers also have a slew of options to choose from if they wish to upgrade their vehicle. For instance, they could add a 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit as well as a Chill Chaser heat strip. They could also choose to add a gas oven as well. Both the roof and walls of the camper are vacuum-laminated, helping to increase their durability. Lastly, Forest River provides options targeted for those looking to maximize their time in the outdoors. For instance, customers could add Pro Rac Mounting Bars so that they could take bikes with them on their trip. There are also accessories available that would allow users to carry kayaks as well. Customers could also select an off-road package that comes with 15” Mud Rover Radial Tires and a lift kit.Key Features
- Sleeps up to four
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight = 1,164 or 1,763 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating = 1,962 or 2,898 pounds
- Exterior Length = 11′ 4” or 12′
- Exterior Width = 76” or 84”
- Exterior Height = 76”
- Fresh Water Capacity = 20 gallons
3. Aliner Ascape Travel Trailer
The Ideal Choice for Those Who Value Simplicity
The Ascape Travel Trailer from Aliner is an excellent option for those who appreciate simplicity. The vehicle is a mere 13 feet long and does not have a separate bedroom. It is very similar to a fifth wheel trailer, except for the fact that people can stand tall and the kitchen is inside the unit.
Why We Recommend the Aliner Ascape Travel Trailer
If you’re someone who values simplicity while camping, you’ll likely be interested in the Ascape Travel Trailer from Aliner. The unit is compact and lightweight, featuring a dining area that converts into a bed for two. There is not enough room for a shower inside of the trailer, although Aliner included outdoor shower capabilities with the trailer. Aliner also added a drop floor so that people can walk comfortably. Although the trailer may have a simple design, it doesn’t lack modern technology. For instance, customers will find front-mounted solar panels and 10” electric brakes. There is also a rear warning track on the back of the vehicle. Users also have access to a 16,000 BTU furnace, a 35-amp converter with a charger, and four stabilizer jacks. Aliner was able to maximize space to add a 23” TV, Bluetooth soundbar, and three-way refrigerator. Although this camper’s size may remind you of a fifth wheel, it contains far more amenities inside. This camper does enough to keep you satisfied and comfortable while camping.Key Features
- Sleeps two
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight = 1,500 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating = 2,500 pounds
- Exterior Length = 13′
- Exterior Width = 66”
- Exterior Height = 7′ 5”
- Fresh Water Capacity = 11 gallons
4. TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth Travel Trailer
The Versatile Option for Adventure Enthusiasts
The TigerMoth Trek and the TigerMoth Camp Trailers are excellent options from TAXA Outdoors. Both models have a dry weight of fewer than 1,300 pounds, which means most four-wheel vehicles should be able to pull them without a problem.
Why We Recommend the TigerMoth Travel Trailer
TigerMoth says that campers can go at least a week off the grid while in this camper, thanks to its built-in electrical housing system, 12V outlets, and LED lights. Customers can also opt to add solar panels to their trailer to extend the time that they can stay off the grid. The company says that NASA inspired their designs, allowing them to deliver a functional camper that made it easy to live off the grid. Although it’s compact, TigerMoth trailers are for adventurers. They feature UV-treated aluminum panels, minimizing the risk of sun exposure. Customers will also find 15” steel wheels with all-terrain tires, in addition to a cargo deck with 300-pound weight capacity.Key Features
- Sleeps two
- Easy to store in a standard garage
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight = 1,300 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating = 2,500 pounds
- Exterior Length = 12′
5. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro Travel Trailer
An Affordable Camper for Beginners
It came as no surprise to see Forest River again appear on our list of the best ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 pounds. This affordable, lightweight camper is an excellent option for those who interested in making their first purchase.
Why We Recommend the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro Travel Trailer
We were big fans of this trailer because it’s an affordable option for those who don’t need to sleep more than two. Forest River said that they designed the E-Pro series “for those campers who have chosen to drive today’s more fuel-efficient and smaller SUV’s.” Although there are seven floorplans available, those interested in a lightweight trailer will want to look into the E-Pro 12RK and 12SRK. Those traveling in this camper will find that it provides a smooth ride, thanks primarily to its Rubber-Ryde suspension and torsion axle. Nitro-filled radial tires also lend to this cause. The vehicle is also durable thanks to its’ six-sided aluminum cage construction. There are also two-frame mounted stabilizer jacks that make it easier for users to set up camp. Standard features also include a WiFi Ranger booster with available WiFi connectivity. No matter if you’re looking to stay connected while camping or need an Internet connection in an emergency, this feature could be incredibly beneficial. There is also a Shower Miser Water Saver included as well, allowing you to stretch your water supply while traveling.Key Features
- Sleeps two
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight = 1,164 or 1,763 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating = 1,962 or 2,898 pounds
- Exterior Length = 11′ 4” or 12′
- Exterior Width = 76” or 84”
- Exterior Height = 7′ 6”
- Fresh Water Capacity = 20 gallons
Conclusion on Trailers Under 2000 lbs
Just because you don’t have a truck or half-ton vehicle does not mean you can’t enjoy yourself while camping. Manufacturers have begun producing ultra-lightweight travel trailers designed explicitly for those with minivans, mid-sized SUVs, and other similar vehicles. Single travelers, couples, and families can all benefit by finding an ultra-lightweight travel trailer. Before buying or renting your new travel trailer, we recommend that you check with your vehicle manufacturer to ensure its payload capacity is adequate for the trailer. You could also potentially find this information online or in your user’s manual. Knowing the payload capacity of the vehicle can help narrow your trailer choices considerably. Lastly, also remember that you should be concerned about the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the trailer on-board, including, but not limited to, food, gasoline, water, and people. Since these items will be on the trailer when you go camping, this number is significantly more critical that the dry weight of the camper. The models on our list accounted for unloaded weight. We hope that the five best ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 pounds are beneficial in your search for quality camping and exploration equipment. After examining dozens of models and reading thousands of online reviews, we are confident that the five trailers we’ve provided are the best on the market today and that you’ll find yourself satisfied choosing any one of the options. Recommended RV Articles
