5th wheels are one of the most popular types of towable RVs on the market today, due to their many advantages.
As they offer improved towing stability, added interior space, and versatile interiors.
One major disadvantage of 5th wheels though is that they are often very heavy, requiring either a 3/4-ton or a 1-ton truck to safely pull them.
As is the case with luxury 5th-wheel toy haulers, which can often weigh well over 15,000 pounds.
The good news, however, is that there are many lighter 5th-wheel options out there that can be pulled by a half-ton truck, such as the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, or the Dodge RAM 1500.
So, if you’re in the market for a 5th wheel but want something lighter and more manageable, you’ve come to the right place.
Because in this blog post, we’ve highlighted some of the best and most popular 5th wheels under 8,000 lbs.
Best 5th Wheels Under 8,000 Pounds (Lightest to Heaviest)
Here are the eight best 5th wheels under 8,000 pounds, ranked from lightest to heaviest.
| Make/Model/Trim | Dry Weight | GVWR | Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Palomino Puma 255RKS | 6,754 lbs | 8,800 lbs | 28′ 5″ | $34,000 |
| 2. KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL | 6,860 lbs | 8,500 lbs | 29′ 4″ | $38,000 |
| 3. CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR24RL | 6,948 lbs | 10,244 lbs | 28′ 1″ | $40,000 |
| 4. KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD | 7,260 lbs | 9,000 lbs | 26′ 9″ | $45,000 |
| 5. Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 24RDS | 7,463 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 28′ 10″ | $47,000 |
| 6. Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 260RD | 7,612 lbs | 9,995 lbs | 29′ 9″ | $55,000 |
| 7. Jayco Eagle HT 24RE | 7,880 lbs | 9,995 lbs | 29′ 2″ | $51,500 |
| 8. Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS | 7,950 lbs | 9,852 lbs | 28′ 11″ | $50,000 |
1. Palomino Puma 255RKS
Quick Specs
- Price: $34,000
- Length: 28 Feet 5 Inches
- Dry Weight: 6,754 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,102 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 8,800 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Slide-Outs: 1
The Palomino Puma 255RKS is not only the lightest 5th wheel on this list but one of the lightest 5th wheels on the market today.
As this lightweight fifth wheel has a dry weight of only 6,754 pounds.
To see the lightest 5th wheel on the market today and how much it weighs, check out our blog post “What is the Lightest 5th Wheel? Solved“.
Despite its lightweight design and shorter 28-foot 5-inch length though, the Puma 255RKS still manages to pack in a ton of features and amenities.
Starting with the fifth wheel’s private front bedroom, which features a full-size north-to-south queen bed and plenty of cabinet space.
Thanks to dual wardrobes, plenty of overhead cabinets, and a large wardrobe closet in the hallway right outside the bedroom.
Palomino Puma 255RKS Floorplan
Moving from front to back, the next feature that this camper offers is a full three-piece dry bath with a separate shower, toilet, and bathroom vanity.
Where this small lightweight fifth wheel really shines though is in its large rear kitchen/living area.
As the Puma 255RKS offers a large open-concept living area that combines the living room and kitchen into one large rear entertaining space.
Boasting a slide-out and various seating options, including a large sofa and a dinette booth.
Plus, a huge entertainment center that can be upgraded with a fireplace to give the space a more homey feel.
And because this floor plan offers a rear kitchen layout, it’s able to offer a really nice kitchen, despite its smaller overall size.
Offering an L-shaped layout, stainless steel appliances with a large double-door fridge, ample counter space, a large sink with a high-rise faucet, and plenty of cabinetry.
For more information on the Palomino Puma 255RKS and to see a 3D tour of the camper, check out Palomino’s website by clicking here.
2. KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL
Quick Specs
- Price: $38,000
- Length: 29 Feet 4 Inches
- Dry Weight: 6,860 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,130 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 8,500 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 1
With a weight of just over 100 pounds more compared to the Palomino Puma from above, the KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL is another great example of a lightweight fifth wheel.
As the camper has a dry weight of only 6,860 pounds and a hitch weight of just 1,130 pounds.
Allowing many half-ton trucks, such as the Ford F-150 and the GMC Sierra 1500 to pull it.
Making this 5th wheel trailer a great choice for those looking for a lightweight easy to tow 5th wheel.
Designed with families in mind, this lightweight but capable 5th wheel offers everything a family would need for traveling and camping.
Whether for a quick weekend getaway or a multi-week camping trip.
As the Sportsmen 251RL offers a six-person sleeping capacity, a spacious three-piece dry bath, and an open rear living area that features plenty of seating as well as a full-featured kitchen.
KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL Floorplan
But there’s more to the KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL than just these basic features.
So let’s take a closer look at this lightweight 5th-wheel trailer to see why it’s so special.
Beginning at the front of the 5th wheel, which offers a private bedroom with a north-to-south walk-around queen bed, dual wardrobes, and a small linen closet that’s shared with the bathroom.
Moving from front to back, as is the case with most 5th wheels, the bathroom in this 5th wheel is located between the bedroom and living area.
And features a full three-piece design with a separate shower, toilet, and bathroom vanity.
The rear living/kitchen area in this 5th wheel is the real star of the show, however.
As it features a large slide-out that houses a 42-inch dinette booth as well as a massive 70-inch tri-fold sofa that spans the entire back wall of the camper.
And thanks to the 5th wheel’s L-shaped kitchen layout, it’s able to offer a very well-equipped kitchen that includes plenty of counter space, lots of cabinets, and a full suite of appliances.
Plus, the entertainment center in this fifth wheel, which offers a TV and fireplace is incorporated into the kitchen cabinets to provide even more counter space inside the camper.
Which is great, because it seems like no matter how much counter space an RV has, you always need more.
For more information on the KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL, check out KZ RV’s website by clicking here.
3. CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR24RL
Quick Specs
- Price: $40,000
- Length: 28 Feet 1 Inch
- Dry Weight: 6,948 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,250 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 10,244 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 1
Next on our list of the best 5th wheels under 8,000 pounds is the CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR24RL, which has a very similar layout and price point compared to the KZ RV Sportsmen 251RL from above.
As this 5th wheel trailer also offers a front private bedroom, a spacious mid bath, and a large rear living/kitchen space.
And has an average price of $40,000, making it just two thousand more compared to the Sportsmen 251RL.
CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR24RL Floorplan
There are a few key differences between the Cruiser Aire CR24RL and Sportsmen 251RL layouts though, starting with their front bedrooms.
Because while the Cruiser Aire offers a king-size bed in the front bedroom, the Sportsmen only provides a queen-sized bed.
In addition, the pantry location between the two 5th wheels differs as well.
As the Cruiser Aire uses the space behind the entertainment center as a pantry, while the Sportsmen places the pantry next to the fridge on the slideout.
And lastly, another key difference between the two fifth wheels is their seating arrangements.
Because while both 5th wheels offer a large sleeper sofa on the back wall, the Cruiser Aire offers either a free-standing kitchen table or a u-shaped dinette booth, while the Sportsmen only offers the more common dinette booth.
For more info on the CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR24RL, you can check out Crossroad’s website by clicking here.
4. KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD
Quick Specs
- Price: $45,000
- Length: 26 Feet 9 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,260 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,200 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 9,000 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 2
While the KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD is not the lightest 5th-wheel on this list, it’s definitely one of the shortest.
As the Durango Half-Ton D230RKD has an exterior length of only 26 feet 9 inches.
Making it several feet shorter on average compared to other lightweight 5th wheels.
Because of this, the D230RKD is a great choice for those looking for a more compact 5th wheel that is easier to manage and maneuver in tighter spaces.
KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD Floorplan
Just because this 5th wheel has a more compact size though that doesn’t mean it offers fewer amenities.
As the interior of this 5th wheel was designed from the ground up to maximize its interior space.
So that it could offer all the same features and amenities as its larger counterparts.
Including a spacious front private bedroom, a full three-piece bathroom, and a large rear open-concept living area with a slide-out.
And thanks to the camper’s rear kitchen that spans the entire back wall of the 5th wheel, it’s able to offer a surprisingly well-equipped and spacious kitchen.
That offers lots of cabinets and counter space, an oversized deep well sink with a high-rise faucet, and a full set of appliances.
The 5th wheel also includes a good amount of storage both inside and outside as well.
As there are tons of interior cabinets and ample exterior storage compartments on the camper.
Plus, an exceptionally large exterior pass-through storage compartment that can be accessed from either side of the camper.
For additional info on the KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD and to see a guided tour of the interior, check out KZ RV’s website by clicking here.
5. Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 24RDS
Quick Specs
- Price: $47,000
- Length: 28 Feet 10 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,463 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,430 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 10,000 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 2
Similar to the KZ RV Sportsmen (#2 on this list) and the CrossRoads Cruiser Aire (#3 on this list), the Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 24RDS does a great job of maximizing its living space, despite its lighter weight and smaller size.
As the 5th wheel trailer has an exterior length of only 28 feet 10 inches and a dry weight of just 7,463 pounds, yet still manages to offer a spacious interior with plenty of amenities.
Including a private front bedroom, a full three-piece bathroom, and a large rear open-concept living area with a combined living room/kitchen with a huge slide-out.
Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 24RDS Floorplan
The 5th wheel’s interior was also designed with both comfort and functionality in mind.
As the 5th wheel features a number of well-thought-out design touches that make it a joy to travel and camp in.
Such as the 5th wheel’s large and comfortable u-shaped dinette booth that spans the entire back wall and makes the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or play some cards.
Or the 5th wheel’s comfortable tri-fold sofa which provides additional seating inside the camper and can be optioned with theatre seating if you don’t need the extra sleeping space.
And speaking of sleeping space, this fifth wheel offers plenty of it.
As the 5th wheel trailer can sleep up to six campers at a time, thanks to the 5th wheels front queen-sized bed, and the above-mentioned convertible u-shaped dinette booth and tri-fold sofa.
Making this 5th wheel from Keystone a great choice for those looking for a lightweight fifth wheel with lots of sleeping capacity.
For more info on the Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 24RDS and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Keystone’s website by clicking here.
6. Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 260RD
Quick Specs
- Price: $55,000
- Length: 29 Feet 9 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,612 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,258 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 9,995 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Slide-Outs: 2
While the Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 260RD has a very similar floorplan compared to other lightweight fifth wheels on this list, this 5th wheel is anything from ordinary.
As the Reflection 150 Series 260RD is loaded with premium features and upgrades throughout.
Starting on the exterior, which includes upgraded insulation, aluminum framing, a residential wood frame roof with five-inch trusses, and a one-piece TPO roof membrane with an industry-leading 18-year warranty to name just a few.
Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 260RD Floorplan
But that’s not all this luxury lightweight 5th wheel has to offer though, as the high-end features continue on into the interior of the camper.
As this fifth wheel’s interior offers large panoramic slide room windows, ductless flooring, roller shades, and heated wall hugger theatre seats with LED lights, and massage.
As well as upgraded cabinetry with solid hardwood drawer fronts, an entertainment center with a built-in fireplace, an oversized 16 cubic foot refrigerator, and premium materials and finishes.
All of these upgrades and premium features don’t come cheap though.
Because while the Reflection 150 Series 260RD isn’t outrageously expensive, there is a noticeable price jump from this model compared to other more budget-friendly models on this list.
For those with the means though, the Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 260RD is one of the best options out there.
If you’re looking for a quality well-built lightweight 5th wheel that offers all the bells and whistles.
To learn more about this 5th wheel, check out Grand Design’s website by clicking here.
7. Jayco Eagle HT 24RE
Quick Specs
- Price: $51,500
- Length: 29 Feet 2 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,880 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,480 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 9,995 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Slide-Outs: 1
The Jayco Eagle HT, which is the smaller and lighter little brother to the Jayco Eagle, was specifically designed to be half-ton towable.
Thanks to the 5th wheel trailer’s shorter profile and lightweight design.
And one of the most popular Eagle HT trim levels is the Jayco Eagle HT 24RE, which has an overall length of just under 30 feet and a dry weight of just under 8,000 pounds.
To see other 5th wheels under 30 feet, check out our blog post “12 Best 5th Wheels Under 30 Feet (With Pricing)“.
Jayco Eagle HT 24RE Floorplan
The Eagle HT 24RE trim level offers a very different layout compared to other 5th-wheel trailers under 8,000 pounds.
Because while the fifth wheel offers the standard front bedroom over the trailer hitch and the standard mid bath, the rear entertaining area is completely flipped on its head.
As the rear entry door is moved forward in this 5th wheel to allow for a large entertainment center that doubles as a walk-in pantry and a large tri-fol sofa.
Giving this 5th wheel trailer a much nicer living room space to enjoy and relax in.
And thanks to the fifth wheel’s extra large slide-out, which features massive panoramic windows, it offers one of the most spacious rear entertaining areas in its class.
Making it the perfect lightweight 5th wheel for those that like to entertain or just looking for extra interior space.
For additional info on the Jayco Eagle HT 24RE and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Jayco’s website by clicking here.
8. Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS
Quick Specs
- Price: $50,000
- Length: 28 Feet 11 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,950 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,252 Pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 9,852 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Slide-Outs: 2
One of the most popular 5th wheels under 8000 lbs is the Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS.
As this compact lightweight fifth wheel has it all.
Beginning with the 5th wheel’s unique front bedroom, which features either a queen or optional king east-to-west bed on a slide-out.
Which not only provides a more walkable floor in the bedroom but also allows for class-leading storage space.
Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS Floorplan
Because by shifting the bed off to the side on a slide-out, it allows the entire nose of the 5th wheel to be used for storage space.
Allowing this fifth wheel to offer a large wardrobe that is typically only found on much larger and heavier 5th wheels.
Moving beyond its unique front bedroom though, the Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS continues to impress.
As the 5th wheel’s rear living area is also very unique and offers a number of features that are typically only found on larger and heavier 5th wheels.
Starting with the 5th wheel’s massive kitchen that spans the entire back wall of the camper and wraps around the living area before ending in a huge peninsula with bar seating.
Providing an unprecedented amount of counter space for a 5th wheel of this size.
The features don’t stop there though, as this lightweight fifth wheel also features a large hide-a-bed sofa on a slide-out with panoramic windows, a nice size pantry, and a large flat-screen TV over the peninsula.
Plus, a ceiling fan in the main living area, which is a real rarity in a fifth wheel of this size.
As you usually have to get into much larger and heavier 5th wheels before you start seeing features like ceiling fans.
For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2442BS, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here.
Wrap-Up
There you have it, the 8 best 5th wheels under 8,000 pounds.
All of which offer a great mix of features, interior space, and amenities
So no matter what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a 5th wheel that’s perfect for you and your family.
If you’re still not sure which 5th wheel under 8,000 pounds is right for you though, be sure to check out our blog post “10 Best 5th Wheels Under 50K (With Photos & Video)“
As this blog post offers even more 5th wheels that are either under or close to 8,000 pounds, to help narrow down your search even further.
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