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Top Small Camping Trailers for Outdoor Enthusiasts

What Are the Best Small Camping Trailers?

Do you dream of exploring the great outdoors without breaking the bank or dealing with a lot of bulk and storage? If so, small camping trailers are an ideal option for you! Whether you love enjoying the peacefulness of nature or taking off on long outdoor getaways that require some comfort, these lightweight campers provide everything an outdoor enthusiast could want while still leaving room in your budget.

From minimalistic A-frame models to teardrop trailers with all the bells and whistles, this guide will help walk you through small camping trailer options for any lifestyle. Keep reading to discover which one is right for your next adventure!

What Is Considered a Small Camping Trailer?

A small camping trailer combines the footprint of tent camping with the comfort and convenience of air conditioning and a bed to sleep in. The size of a small trailer varies and can range from as short as 8 feet up to 25 feet long.

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Another key point is that small travel trailers are usually single-axle travel trailers that can be towed with an SUV or a half-ton truck. They can range in weight from 600 pounds up to as much as 3,500 pounds.

Benefits of Small Camping Trailers

Small camping trailers provide the perfect balance of convenience and comfort when it comes to outdoor recreation. They are lightweight and easy to tow, making them great for family camping trips or weekend getaways with friends.

Since they are small, they can easily fit into campsites, which is perfect for staying just about anywhere you want to travel in your tiny getaway on wheels. Plus, their small size makes them easier to store in a garage or driveway when not in use.

On top of that, many small trailer models are also usually affordable trailers because of their minimalistic design. This is great news if you’re on a budget! Whether you’re starting out as an outdoors enthusiast or looking for an upgrade from tent camping, these lightweight campers can offer comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.

Small Camping Trailer By The Ocean
Photo By: Scott Russell of The Adventure Detour

Factors To Consider When Choosing Small Travel Trailers

When choosing a small camping trailer, there are several factors to consider. First, you’ll want to look at the size and weight restrictions of your tow vehicle. This will help ensure that you can safely tow the camper without any issues. If you’re not sure what type of vehicle would be compatible with your chosen trailer, it’s best to consult with a professional or do a little online research before making a final decision.

Next, take into account the features and amenities offered in different small camping trailer models. Do you need air conditioning or heat? What about shower and bathroom facilities? Does the model have enough sleeping space for everyone in your family? It’s important to consider these needs carefully before buying a small trailer.

Also, think about where you plan to stay in your small travel trailer. Your camping style matters when choosing which RV to purchase. If you want to skip worrying about campground reservations and stay off-grid, you need the right trailer for this camping style. For off-grid or off-road capabilities, it helps to consider solar power, upgraded suspension, and off-road tires.

Finally, consider your budget, as some of these campers can be pricey depending on the features and amenities they offer. Fortunately, plenty of affordable trailers are still available for those who don’t want to splurge. With a bit of research, you should be able to find one that fits both your needs and your wallet!

Now that you know more about small camping trailers, let’s take a look at some of the most popular models on the market today!

Top Small Camper Trailers

There are so many great options for small trailers that it can be tough to know where to start when looking at them. They have recently become much more popular. There is also an increase in travel lovers choosing smaller RVs to travel full-time. Here are some great models to check out, starting with our top pick.

Ember Overland Micro Series ROK

The Overland Micro Series ROK is like a loaded rolling accessory cart. This camping trailer is small but mighty.

The Micro Series is perfect for off-road adventures, which is clear with its quality features. Its sturdy build includes a Trailblazer offroad heavy-duty chassis. It also has an independent suspension system by CURT with dual shock absorbers and heavy-duty coil springs.

The showstopper in the ROK model is the rear outdoor kitchen which includes a Camco 12-volt dual zone fridge and freezer electric cooler, a 12-volt TV, and an optional grill. There is an alternative ROL model that has a rear outdoor locker for storage in place of the outdoor kitchen.

Also, consider the extensive optional add-ons to deck this little travel trailer out even more. You can add a Thule Tepui Roof Tent that sleeps two and upgrade to a Battle Born battery. You can even add a wireless outdoor observation camera.

However, the biggest con of this small camping trailer is that it has no bathroom. It is also jam-packed with options, but this makes it a more expensive option compared to some other trailers of this size.

  • Length: 12′ 10″
  • Weight: 2,215 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 2 or 4 with the optional roof tent
  • Price: starts at $31,109
  • Notable Feature: Decked-out accessories and off-road capabilities
  • Towing: Small to mid-sized SUVs

Airstream Basecamp 20X

Airstream is simply a classic in American camping. The new Basecamp model is the same Airstream quality that campers expect but in a smaller, single-axle, rugged model. Basecamp comes in an optional 16X (16 feet) or 20X (20 feet).

The pros of the Basecamp small camping trailer model include the bathroom with a shower, a living area that converts into a bed, and a full kitchen. The large rear hatch allows you to easily load and unload gear into the trailer. The floor space from the hatch door is 126″ long for extra large items.

There is plenty of storage within the bench as well as an overhead open rack system. Both the door and rear hatch have screens to allow you to enjoy the view and catch a breeze. You will stay comfortable with the air conditioning and furnace. The fabric is durable marine grade.

Optional add-on features include an attachable enclosed tent to increase storage or living space and a flexible 300-watt roof solar panel.

However, the cons of the Basecamp include its more expensive price tag, which is in line with the Airstream name. It also has no awning for shade, so if you don’t get the optional add-on tent, you won’t have any protection from the sun.

  • Length: 20 feet
  • Weight: 3,500 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starting around $64,000
  • Notable Feature: Sleek but rugged design with a large cargo door
  • Towing: Midsize SUVs or 1/2 ton truck

Aliner Evolution

The Aliner Evolution is the first ever hard-sided small camping trailer to have two queen beds. This unique hard-sided pop-up is a very small size but still includes a toilet and shower. The shower is located inside a floor hatch beneath the removable dinette table. There is also a conveniently hidden cassette toilet.

The couch and the dinette each fold out into queen-bed sleeping areas. Also unusual in a trailer this size are the two 12″ x 36″ storage hatches. The kitchen features a flush-mount sink and stove as well as a mini fridge and freezer combo.

Campers may view the pop-up mechanism as a potential con due to the worry of future moving parts failure or the potential for leaks.

  • Length: 18 feet
  • Weight: 2,300 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starts around $40,000
  • Notable Feature: 2 queen beds
  • Towing: Small to mid-size SUV or 1/2 ton truck

TrailManor 3124KB

This is truly a unique, versatile small travel trailer that doesn’t get talked about enough. This company has been around for a long time and has an innovative folding design that you won’t find anywhere else.

The TrailManor travel trailer is a hard-sided pop-up camper with a full bathroom, full kitchen, and large sleeping areas that include the option of a king-size bed. Despite its roomy layout when set up, it folds down into a compact design for storage that will fit into most home garages.

Although TrailManor isn’t talked about or included in as many lists of small travel trailers, its owners are a loyal fan base that has used these trailers for many years. TrailManor has a lifetime warranty on the pop-up mechanism/bars and a unique seal system to prevent leaks. The trailer even sets up in the rain without water getting inside and can be set up while still connected to the tow vehicle.

The setup is very fast and easy, taking only about 2 minutes which is impressive for a pop-up. It features a Torsion Lift Technology, which makes it easier to pop up. This little trailer has features that you would find in a larger travel trailer, with the ease of towing and storage of a small unit.

Options in this small travel trailer include a swing hitch to save 2 feet in length for camper storage, an awning, a cassette toilet for boondocking, and a microwave instead of the stove. The 3124 KB is the largest TrailManor offering the most sleeping capacity. If you need a smaller or lighter option, check out the other three models: 2922, 2720, and 2518.

However, the largest potential con of this small camping trailer is the seals and moving parts in the pop-up mechanism, which makes many campers concerned about possible future issues.

  • Length: 31 foot
  • Weight: 3,140 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 7
  • Price: Starts around $42,000
  • Notable Feature: 24-foot towing length closed and large living and sleeping areas when opened
  • Towing: Mid-sized SUV or 1/2 ton truck

nuCamp TAB 400

Teardrop campers are a popular option due to their aerodynamic shape and ease of towing. The TAB 400 is the largest teardrop offered in the nuCamp line for more sleeping capacity.

This tiny but mighty trailer offers a roof solar panel, a queen bed, a wet bath, storage, instant hot water, dual pane windows, and a flush-mount kitchen. The star of this model is the hidden fold-out bunk bed system that comes out of the dinette seating.

There is also an optional boondock package that offers off-road tires with a heavy-duty axle. You can also upgrade to a 400-amp Battle Born lithium battery with a 3000-watt inverter.

Potential cons of the TAB 400 include its lack of 4-season insulation and the price. It’s a larger teardrop but also has a larger price tag than others in the teardrop class.

  • Length: 18 foot
  • Weight: 2,840 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starts around $52,000
  • Notable Feature: Hidden bunk bed system
  • Towing: Small to mid-size SUV

Scamp 16′

The Scamp is a classic American hard-shelled trailer made since 1972. It’s both sturdy and lightweight, which makes it a popular option among small campers.

Scamp trailers are made in 13-foot, 16-foot, and 19-foot fifth-wheel options. They are made of a uniquely aerodynamic, lightweight, fiberglass hard shell. The smaller size is easier on gas mileage and can be towed by small SUVs, some minivans, and mini trucks.

This line is noted for its quality construction, including solid wood cabinets, heat, and air conditioning. The 16-foot Scamp gives you more counter and storage space over the 13-foot model. It also features an optional bathroom and rooftop air conditioner. There are five standard layouts and four deluxe layouts in the 16-foot trailer.

The main differences in layouts are the bathroom and sleeping areas. A side bathroom provides a dinette convertible sleeping area in the front of the trailer as one layout option. In another, the front bathroom is larger but doesn’t provide a second sleeping area.

The huge pro of this small camping trailer is the construction. This fiberglass shell looks like an egg shape with a top and lower trailer section that meet in the middle. This means they last a long time and aren’t prone to leaks. They are very simple trailers, and it’s easy to find parts since the company has been around so long.

The potential cons of this trailer are that they are super basic. Most options that would be standard in other trailer models are upgrades on the Scamp. No storage areas are available, and they do not have four seasons insulation.

  • Length: 16 foot
  • Weight: 1900 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 2-4
  • Price: Starts around $20,000
  • Notable Feature: Rounded fiberglass roof and body
  • Towing: Small to mid-size SUV

Winnebago Micro Minnie FLX 2100BH

Looking for a small camping trailer but also want a slide-out for more interior space when parked? Check out the Micro Minnie, which features one slide to give you a little more space.

The FLX version of the Micro Minnie has features to allow you to camp off-grid for five days. It includes two 200-watt solar panels with a 3,000-watt inverter and a 320-amp hour lithium battery. A unique feature of this camper is the included freshwater reclamation system for water conservation.

The 2100 BH offers an additional bunk sleeping area by removing the bathroom sink. There is a bathroom with a shower and a tankless water heater. This small camper also has a pass-through storage compartment and kitchen pantry storage that is rare to find in a trailer this size.

The Micro Minnie FLX is also great for winter camping with an enclosed underbelly, tank heaters, and a Truma furnace. The one major drawback of this trailer is the higher price point, but that higher price is for the access to this newer off-grid technology that many campers are looking for.

  • Length: 21′ 11″
  • Weight: 4,177 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 5
  • Price: Starting at $64,000
  • Notable Feature: Off-grid capabilities
  • Towing: 1/2 ton truck

Aero Build Coast

This brand-new trailer company made our list because it stands alone with innovative modern features. The Coast is a luxury all-electric RV that is like nothing the RV world has ever seen.

The Coast features premium Smeg Italian appliances, panoramic windows, built-in Starlink mobile WIFI, and an off-grid solar system with 1360 watts with lithium battery banks.

This small trailer is also very green with Havelock Wool Insulation to keep the trailer cool or warm. It also has a Moen water-saving shower head to use 50% less water. There is no black tank, thanks to a Laveo Dry Flush toilet.

It has a full kitchen with a pantry which isn’t commonly seen in a small trailer. The drawback to these advanced features is the price tag. This luxury trailer starts at over 120,000 and is only available right now by custom ordering it.

  • Length: 21 foot
  • Weight: 6,000 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starting at 124,900
  • Notable Feature: All-electric and green features
  • Towing: 1/2 ton truck

Happier Camper Traveler

Happier Camper trailers are another all-fiberglass, hard-shelled, sturdy small camper choice. What makes this brand unique and worthy of a spot on this list is the customizable features inside.

Happier Camper uses a technology called ADAPTIV which allows you to move and adjust modular components inside to customize the living space. These modular pieces are lightweight but strong and durable. They can be stacked and even used outside at your campsite.

The strong fiberglass shell is sturdy enough to last a long time with a much lower chance of having any kind of water issues as the trailer ages. The modular pieces inside the trailer allow you to quickly configure the space into living areas, an office, or sleeping areas.

  • Length: 17 feet
  • Weight: 1,800 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: $64,950
  • Notable Feature: ADAPTIV modular system
  • Towing: Some minivans, small and mid-size SUVs

Colorado Teardrops Summit Pinnacle Camper Trailer

Looking for a high-clearance off-road overland camping trailer? The Summit Pinnacle is designed for the most demanding off-road conditions for camping.

The Summit Pinnacle is a high-clearance 4-person trailer with 33″ off-road tires and 21″ clearance that makes this the perfect small overlanding camper. It features a unique Timbren Axle-less Suspension system. An articulating Lock N’ Roll trailer hitch adds to the off-road capabilities.

The inside is lined in all hickory wood with a stargazer window. It converts to sleeping for four at night with a queen bed and a bunk bed system. By day the space includes a couch for four and a removable dining table. The back hatch has an outdoor storage area that can serve as an outdoor kitchen space.

The potential drawback to this trailer is that it has no bathroom. Most items on this trailer are upgrades, including electricity, air conditioning, and a spare tire.

  • Length: 14′ 5″
  • Weight: 1,850 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starting around $32,000
  • Notable Feature: Off-road capabilities
  • Towing: Small and mid-size SUVs

Additional Small Camping Trailers To Consider

Polydrops P17A1

This all-electric, aerodynamic, off-road capable, small camping trailer is able to be towed by an electric vehicle.

  • Length: 13′ 1″
  • Weight: 1,200-1,600 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Price: $30,590
  • Notable Feature: All electric camping trailer
  • Towing: Some EVs, small SUVs, some minivans

Riverside Xplorer 135x

The Riverside Xplorer series features ten different floor plans with small camping trailers ranging from 12′ 8″ to 27′ 9″. A few models also have a slide-out for extra room.

  • Length: 15′ 9″
  • Weight: 2640 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 3-4
  • Price: Starting around $25,000
  • Notable Feature: Reasonably priced lightweight small travel trailers
  • Towing: Small to mid-size SUV

Taxa Outdoors Mantis 5.2

The Mantis 5.2 is an overlanding trailer with a pop-up roof tent that also fits in most house garages. It also has a fold-out bunk bed couch in addition to the full-size bed. This is one of the most unique small camping trailers on this list!

  • Length: 19 foot
  • Weight: 3,115 pounds
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starting at $54,000
  • Notable Feature: Pop-up roof tent
  • Towing: Mid-size SUV

Cruiser RV Hitch 18RBS

Hitch by Cruiser RV is an ultra-lite travel trailer built for off-road terrain. There are five floorplans available, and some include a slide-out, bunk bed sleeping areas, or a Murphy bed.

  • Length: 20′ 11″
  • Weight: 3,768 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 3-4
  • Price: Starting around $25,000
  • Notable Feature: Light-weight off-road small camping trailers
  • Towing: Mid-size SUV

inTech RV Sol Horizon

The unique tilt-forward design really sets inTech RV’s Sol models apart from the rest of the small camping trailers. They feature an all-aluminum welded cage to remain light but also sturdy.

  • Length: 19 foot
  • Weight: 3,230-3,350 pounds dry
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: Starting $45,000
  • Notable Feature: Panoramic front windshield
  • Towing: Mid-size SUV

Runaway CoolCamp 4×8

The CoolCamp is a mini camper that gives you a place to sleep with air conditioning at a reasonable price. This is the perfect choice for someone looking for the bare minimum.

  • Length: 11′ 4″
  • Weight: Begins at 580 pounds
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Price: Starts at $6,000
  • Notable Feature: Least expensive mini camper
  • Towing: Almost any vehicle

Small Camping Trailers: The Versatile Solution for Your Outdoor Adventures

Small camping trailers are a popular option for outdoor adventure due to their versatility. You can find anything from teardrop trailers, off-road overlanding campers, pop-up hard-sided trailers, and even luxury green trailers for glamping. So what are you waiting for? Find your perfect small trailer and hit the road!

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