10 Compact Travel Trailers Perfect for Small Trucks


Toyota Tacoma Pulling a Camper

Are you looking for the perfect travel trailer to pair with your small truck?

If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Because in this blog post, we’ll be highlighting the 10 best travel trailers for small trucks, from ultra-lightweight compact models to larger models with all the amenities from home.

So whether you’re a solo traveler or have a family in tow, or prefer a minimalist or luxury camping experience, there’s sure to be a travel trailer on this list that’s perfect for your needs and camping style.

Top 10 Travel Trailers for Small Trucks (Lightest to Heaviest)

Make/Model/TrimDry WeightGross Vehicle Weight RatingSleeping CapacityCost
1. Happier Camper HC11,100 lbs3,500 lbs5$34,450
2. Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe2,200 lbs3,500 lbs4$17,000
3. Casita Freedom Deluxe2,480 lbs3,500 lbs2$32,694
4. Forest River R-Pod RP-1712,714 lbs3,840 lbs4$23,000
5. Lance 1475S3,225 lbs4,500 lbs3$45,000
6. Forest River Geo Pro G19FBS3,375 lbs4,479 lbs4$29,000
7. Airstream Basecamp 20X3,500 lbs4,300 lbs4$58,000
8. Winnebago Hike H172BH3,596 lbs4,200 lbs6$25,000
9. Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH3,775 lbs4,995 lbs5$26,000
10. Airstream Bambi 20FB4,000 lbs5,000 lbs4$67,000

*Before towing any travel trailer with a small truck, it’s important to check that the truck can handle the weight of the trailer. By making sure that the fully loaded weight of the trailer is below the max tow capacity of the truck.

1. Happier Camper HC1

Quick Specs

  • Price: $34,450
  • Dry Weight: 1,100 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,500 Pounds
  • Length: 13 Feet
  • Sleeping Capacity: 5
  • Bathroom: Porta Potty (Optional)

While the Happier Camper HC1 isn’t the most affordable travel trailer on this list that can be pulled by a small truck, it’s definitely the lightest.

As the HC1 has a dry weight of just 1,100 pounds and an average fully loaded weight of only 1,600 pounds.

Making this small travel trailer roughly a thousand pounds lighter compared to the next trailer on this list.

Because of this, even the smallest and least capable compact trucks, such as the Ford Maveric and the Hyundai Santa Cruz can tow this camper with ease.

Happier Camper HC1 Floor Plan

Happy Camper HC1 Floor Plan

It’s not just the trailer’s ultra-lightweight that makes it great though, as the HC1 is also the most versatile and flexible trailer on this list as well.

As the HC1 has a fully customizable interior, thanks to its ADAPTIV™ floorplan.

Allowing it to be equipped with a variety of ADAPTIV™ components, including everything from storage and bed cubes to table tops and a kitchenette cube.

The HC1 can even be equipped with a small porta-potty.

Making it one of the smallest campers on the market that still offers a bathroom.

To see other small lightweight campers with a bathroom, check out our blog post “10 Smallest Travel Trailers with a Dry Bath“.

Happier Camper HC1 Interior

In addition, another distinctive feature of the Happier Camper HC1 is that it’s the only camper that I’m aware of that you can actually remove all the interior components of the camper.

Allowing you to use the trailer as an enclosed utility trailer or a toy hauler for even more versatility.

And thanks to the HC1’s double door design and large rear flip-up hatch, loading and unloading the camper is a breeze, no matter what configuration the trailer is in.

To see more information on the Happier Camper HC1 and to find out how to order one, check out Happier Camper’s website by clicking here.


2. Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe

https://youtu.be/e5ztmsea9YQ

Quick Specs

  • Price: $17,000
  • Dry Weight: 2,200 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,500 Pounds
  • Length: 16 Feet
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath

For those looking for a compact ultra-lightweight camper with all the features of a full-size travel trailer, you definitely need to check out the Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe.

Which is the big brother to the Scamp 13-Foot.

As this lightweight fiberglass camper offers a four-person sleeping capacity, a full-featured galley, a three-piece wet bath, and a decent amount of storage, all in a package that weighs just 2,200 pounds and that’s only 16 feet long.

Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe Layout C Floor Plan

Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe Layout C Floor Plan

If you’re wondering how fiberglass campers are able to be so much lighter compared to more traditional travel trailers, it’s all about how they’re constructed.

Because while most travel trailers utilize a traditional stick frame construction of either wood or aluminum with multiple layers of cladding or sheeting overtop, fiberglass campers are constructed using a molded fiberglass shell.

Made by laying layers of fiberglass mat or fabric over a mold in the shape of the desired camper, which is then covered in a layer of resin to create a strong, rigid structure.

Eliminating the need for an internal wood or metal framework as well as the various layers of cladding or sheeting overtop.

Which helps to save considerable weight.

Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe Interior

And because fiberglass campers are molded from large pieces of fiberglass they also tend to hold up much better over time and are much less prone to leaks.

It’s not all good news for fiberglass campers though, as they tend to be more expensive, offer less of a thermal barrier, and can be much more expensive to repair compared to more traditional travel trailers.

To find out what affects the price of a 16-Foot Scamp, check out our blog post “How Much Does a 16-Foot Scamp Trailer Cost?“.


3. Casita Freedom Deluxe

Quick Specs

  • Price: $32,694
  • Dry Weight: 2,480 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,500 Pounds
  • Length: 17 Feet
  • Sleeping Capacity: 2
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath

The Casita Freedom Deluxe is another popular fiberglass camper that has a very similar length and weight compared to the Scamp 16-Foot Deluxe from above.

However, despite their similar lengths and weights, these two fiberglass campers couldn’t be more different on the inside.

Because while the 16-Foot Scamp focuses more on being family-friendly, by offering a four-person sleeping capacity and bunk beds, the Casita Freedom Deluxe is all about maximizing comfort and convenience for two.

Making the Freedom Deluxe perfect for couples or for anyone looking for maximum comfort in a small lightweight camper.

Casita Freedom Deluxe Floor Plan

Casita Freedom Deluxe Floor Plan

As the Casita Freedom Deluxe offers numerous comfort and convenience features not typically found on trailers 17 feet in length.

Including such features as a large rear dinette booth that converts into a double bed, a full-featured galley, two caption swivel chairs with an accompanying table, a three-piece wet bath, and a large wardrobe closet.

Plus, this Casita model like all Casita trailers offers many added benefits, thanks to its lightweight fiberglass construction, including improved towability, a highly weather-resistant exterior, and long-lasting durability.

Which is probably why Casita trailers, like other fiberglass campers, tend to hold their value far better compared to more traditionally built RVs.

Casita Freedom Deluxe Interior

Also, if you like the Casita Freedom but need a more family-friendly floor plan not to worry.

As Casita produces five different models, including the Spirit, the Independence, the Heritage, the Freedom, and the Liberty, many of which offer family-friendly floor plans with higher sleeping capacities.

To see the various models and floor plans available for the Casita, check out our blog post “Casita Trailer Pricing Guide: All Models Included“.


4. Forest River R-Pod RP-171

Quick Specs

  • Price: $23,000
  • Dry Weight: 2,714 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,840 Pounds
  • Length: 19 Feet
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath

The Forest River R-Pod RP-171 is the first mass-produced travel trailer on this list that’s made by one of the main RV manufacturers.

However, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

As the R-Pod like all Forest River travel trailers, such as the Geo Pro, the Wolf Pup, and the Wild Wood are able to benefit from Forest River’s economies of scale.

Most notable of which is faster and quicker innovation as well as cost savings.

As the Forest River R-Pod, which was first released in 2008 is one of the most feature-rich and economical small travel trailers you can buy.

Which is why the Forest River R-Pod is one of the most popular small lightweight campers on the road today.

Forest River R-Pod RP-171 Floor Plan

Forest River R-Pod RP-171 Floorplan

Available in 10 different trim levels and floorplans, one of the most popular versions of the R-Pod is the RP-171.

Due in large part to the trailer’s well-laid-out floorplan and feature-rich design.

Because despite being the lightest and second smallest R-Pod available, the 171 still manages to offer all the features that the larger and heavier trim levels offer.

Forest River R-Pod RP-171 Galley

Including such features as a four-person sleeping capacity, a convertible dinette booth, a fixed rear queen-size bed, a bathroom, plenty of interior and exterior storage, and a full-featured galley.

As well as tons of standard upgrades, including Azdel construction, a one-piece seamless fiberglass roof, a roof-mounted 13,500 BTU AC, a propane furnace, designer Carefree® flooring, and residential-style shaker cabinetry.

For a more in-depth review and walkthrough of the R-Pod RP-171, check out our blog post “Forest River R-Pod 171 (In-Depth Review & Walkthrough)“.


5. Lance 1475S

Quick Specs

  • Price: $45,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,225 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,500 Pounds
  • Length: 19 Feet 8 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 3
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Dry Bath

Another great travel trailer perfect for couples and small trucks is the Lance 1475S.

As this lightweight compact camper has a dry weight of just 3,225 pounds and an overall length of less than 20 feet, while still offering every amenity that a couple or small family would need while camping.

Including such amenities as a full-featured galley, a spacious three-piece dry bath, and a large fixed front east-to-west bed.

As well as a good amount of storage and a comfortable couch that’s on a shallow slide-out, the really helps to open up the interior of the camper.

Lance 1475S Floor Plan

Lance 1475S Floor Plan

And because the sofa on the 1475S can be converted into a sleeping space, this smaller camper can actually sleep three people at a time, while still offering all the above amenities.

The best part though is that we haven’t even mentioned the main features that set the Lance travel trailer apart from other campers.

Because the Lance travel trailer and its various models (11 in total) are considered premium campers, thanks to all their high-end features.

Lance 1475S Galley

As all Lance travel trailers including the Lance 1475S offer numerous class-leading features, including a best-in-class all-weather package, an enclosed underbelly with insulated and heated holding tanks, and a one-piece PVC roof.

As well as ducted heat, thermopane Euro windows with screens and blackout shades, high-end cabinetry, and solid surface countertops to name just a few.

To see what affects the price of the Lance 1475S and how much other Lance travel trailers cost, check out our blog post “How Much is a Lance Travel Trailer? Full Cost Breakdown“.


6. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS

Quick Specs

  • Price: $29,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,375 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,479 Pounds
  • Length: 20 Feet 2 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Dry Bath

Another popular travel trailer made by Forest River that can be towed by a small truck is the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS.

As the Geo Pro G19FBS has a dry weight of only 3,375 pounds.

Allowing the camper trailer to be pulled by a variety of small trucks.

Despite its lighter weight though, this particular Geo Pro still manages to offer two very rare features for a lightweight camper, including a slide-out as well as a full three-piece dry bath.

Which really helps to improve the overall livability and comfort inside the camper.

Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS Floor Plan

Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS Floorplan

The trailer’s slide-out and dry bath aren’t the only things that make this camper great though, as the G19FBS also offers tons of other upgrades and premium features as well.

Including such features as a full kitchen, with a three-burner cooktop, an oven, a stainless steel sink, a microwave, and a good size double-door 12V refrigerator.

Forest River Geo Pro 19FBS Interior

As well as standard solar power, a power awning, frameless windows, lots of interior and exterior storage, a large flip-down sofa, a fully-equipped entertainment center, exterior speakers, and a full-size east-to-west queen bed.

For a more in-depth review and walkthrough of the Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS, check out our blog post “Forest River Geo Pro 19FBS (Full Review & Walkthrough)“.


7. Airstream Basecamp 20X

Quick Specs

  • Price: $58,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,500 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,300 Pounds
  • Length: 20 Feet 2 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • Bathroom: 2-Piece Wet Bath

While Airstream is perhaps best known for its iconic “Silver Bullet” trailers, they actually make another type of travel trailer called the Basecamp, which is a complete departure from their classic “Silver Bullet” design.

As the Basecamp was built from the ground up to be the ultimate adventure camper.

Available in two main models.

The Airstream Basecamp 20X, which is the upgraded version of the standard Basecamp 20, and the big brother to the Basecamp 16 and 16X is one of the best off-road and off-grid campers you can pair with a small truck.

Airstream Basecamp 20X Floor Plan

Airstream Basecamp 20X Floorplan

As the Basecamp 20X offers a slew of off-road and off-grid features that make exploring the backcountry not only possible but enjoyable.

By including features like a 3-inch lift kit, Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires, stainless steel front stone guards, a 300W roof-mounted solar package, good-size holding tanks, an enclosed and insulated aluminum heated underbelly, and 12V tank heaters.

Just because the Airstream Basecamp 20X is off-grid friendly though, that doesn’t mean that it’s void of all creature comforts.

In fact, the Basecamp 20X actually offers a surprising amount of creature comforts.

Including a fully functional galley, two convertible dinette booths, a self-contained wet bath, a four-person sleeping capacity, and plenty of flexible storage.

Airstream Basecamp 20X Interior

Plus, the Basecamp 20X also offers numerous premium features as well, like an aluminum exterior, handcrafted aluminum entry doors, and windows, a semi-monocoque aluminum superstructure, and a Truma Combi™ Eco Plus heating system.

As well as aluminum interior walls and ceiling, handcrafted Italian laminated cabinetry, panoramic front windows, blackout shades, and stain-resistant indoor/outdoor cushions.

For more information on the Airstream Basecamp 20X and to find out what affects the cost of the Basecamp, check out our blog post “How Much is an Airstream Basecamp? Cost Breakdown“.


8. Winnebago Hike H172BH

Quick Specs

  • Price: $25,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,596 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,200 Pounds
  • Length: 20 Feet 8 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 6
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Dry Bath

Another travel trailer that’s great for small trucks and boondocking in the backcountry is the Winnebago Hike H172BH.

Because just like the Airstream Basecamp from above, the Winnebago Hike, was designed from the ground up for off-road and off-grid adventures.

Thanks to numerous standard features, including a heavy-duty axle and suspension, 15-inch offroad tires with an axle lift, a propane heating system with dual propane tanks, roof-mounted solar prep, an oversized 31-gallon freshwater tank, and enclosed tanks with 12V heating pads.

Winnebago Hike H172BH Floor Plan

Winnebago Hike H172BH Floor Plan

Available in 5 different trim levels and floor plans, one of the most popular trim levels is the H172BH, thanks to the trailer’s rear bunk house.

As this allows the camper to sleep up to six at a time when combined with its large convertible u-shaped dinette booth in the front.

Which is pretty amazing for a travel trailer that’s just over 20 feet long.

A large sleeping capacity isn’t the only thing this trailer has to offer though, as the trailer also features a large slide-out that helps to open up its interior.

Giving the camper a spacious feel inside despite its smaller size.

Winnebago Hike H172BH Interior

In addition, this camper trailer also features a full three-piece dry bath as well as an outdoor kitchen, which is pretty rare on a 20-foot trailer.

One of the most striking features of the Winnebago Hike though has to be its unique exoskeleton, which actually serves a couple of purposes beyond just making the camper look cool and rugged.

As the exoskeleton not only helps to protect the fiberglass walls and roof of the camper, but it also provides endless attachment points on the camper’s exterior to attach outdoor toys and gear.

To see other trim levels of the Winnebago Hike and how much they cost, check out our blog post “How Much Does the Winnebago Hike Cost? Answered“.


9. Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH

Quick Specs

  • Price: $26,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,775 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,995 Pounds
  • Length: 20 Feet 2 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 5
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Dry Bath

Like the Winnebago Hike from above, the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH is another popular lightweight bunkhouse travel trailer, that a variety of small trucks can pull.

As the Jay Feather Micro 171BH has a dry weight of just 3,775 pounds.

Where these two bunkhouse travel trailers differ though is in their slide-out or lack thereof.

Because while the above Hike H172BH offers a mid-slide-out, the Jay Feather Micro 171BH offers no slide-out at all.

Which at first might seem like a real drawback.

However, there are some advantages to a travel trailer with no slide-outs.

For instance travel trailers with no slide-outs tend to cost less, weigh less, offer easier setup, have fewer mechanical issues, and are less prone to leaking.

Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH Floor Plan

Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH Floor Plan

Despite having no slide-out though, the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH still manages to offer all the same features and amenities of a travel trailer of similar size with a slide.

As the Jay Feather Micro 171BH offers a three-piece dry bath, a full-featured galley, a convertible dinette booth, an east-to-west short RV queen-sized bed, and a good amount of interior and exterior storage.

Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH Bathroom

Plus, the 171BH also offers tons of standard features and upgrades as well, including Azdel construction, a Glacier package with an enclosed underbelly, a magnum truss roof system with a one-piece seamless roof, a power tongue jack and awning, and a 15,000 BTU air conditioner on the exterior.

As well as residential vinyl flooring with cold crack resistance, residential-style kitchen countertops, an on-demand tankless water heater, four-inch high-density cushions, and decorative roller shades with a reflective backer on the interior.

For more info on the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Jayco’s website by clicking here.


10. Airstream Bambi 20FB

Quick Specs

  • Price: $67,000
  • Dry Weight: 4,000 Pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 5,000 Pounds
  • Length: 20 Feet 7 Inches
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • Bathroom: 3-Piece Dry Bath

The Airstream Bambi, which is the smallest and lightest “Silver Bullet” model made by Airstream, makes the perfect companion for small truck owners looking for a high-end camping experience.

As the Bambi, which is offered in four different trim levels, has a dry weight of at or less than 4,000 pounds, depending on the trim level.

While still offering one of the most premium and luxurious camping experiences available in a compact lightweight camper.

Airstream Bambi 20FB Floor Plan

Airstream Bambi 20FB Floor Plan

And one of the best trim levels for the Bambi, in our opinion is the 20FB.

As the Airstream Bambi 20FB offers a nice compromise between the smallest and largest versions.

By offering a larger more spacious interior, while still maintaining Bambi’s trademark compact lightweight design, with an overall length of 20 feet 7 inches and a dry weight of 4,000 pounds.

Airstream Bambi 20FB Kitchen

In addition, the Bambi 20FB also offers one of the largest kitchens with the most counter space on this list.

Thanks to the trailer’s large rear L-shaped kitchen.

Making the trailer a great choice for cooks and amateur chefs alike that really want to be able to spread out while cooking.

For more info on the Airstream Bambi and what affects its price, check out our blog post “How Much is an Airstream Bambi? Full Cost Breakdown“.

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Travel Trailer for a Small Truck

Airstream Basecamp

Now that we’ve seen some of the best and most popular travel trailers for small trucks, we thought that it was important to briefly go over what to consider and look for when choosing a travel trailer for a small truck.

Small Truck Max Towing Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when looking for a travel trailer for a small truck is the max towing capacity of the truck.

As this will have the biggest impact on the size and type of travel trailer you can pull with the truck.

To give you an idea of the typical max towing capacity for a small truck take a look at the below list.

Which lists some of the most popular compact trucks and their corresponding max tow capacities.

Small Truck Max Towing Capacities (Least to Most)

  • Ford Maverick – 2,000 Pounds
  • Hyundai Santa Cruz – 3,500 to 5,000 Pounds
  • Chevrolet Colorado – 3,500 to 6,000 Pounds
  • Toyota Tacoma – 3,500 to 6,800 Pounds
  • GMC Canyon – 6,000 Pounds
  • Nissan Frontier – 6,230 to 6,720 Pounds
  • Ford Ranger – 7,500 Pounds

*Max tow capacities displayed are for the most recent model year.

Regardless of the small truck though, when choosing a travel trailer, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with a travel trailer that has an unloaded vehicle weight and a fully loaded weight considerably below the max towing capacity of the truck.

As this will ensure that you have the power and capacity needed to safely tow the trailer regardless of conditions or terrain, and will help to prevent accidents or breakdowns on the road.

RV Budget

Another crucial factor to consider when buying a travel trailer for a small truck is your RV budget.

As this will help to narrow down your options and make it easier to find the best fit for you, your budget, and your truck.

So to help provide some budgeting guidance when shopping for a travel trailer, we created the below list.

Which highlights five important RV budget rules that everyone should follow when shopping for an RV.

5 RV Budgeting Rules to Follow When Buying an RV

  1. Actually Have a Budget: The first step in budgeting for an RV is to actually have one and not just wing it on the RV lot. So before you ever look at your first RV, sit down with your finances to figure out how much you can actually afford to spend on one. As this will help you narrow down your options, allow you to focus on RVs within your price range, and keep you from looking at RVs you can’t afford.
  2. Don’t Break the Bank: When figuring out your RV budget, keep in mind that the whole point of RVing is not to buy the most expensive RV you can afford but instead to be able to enjoy the RV lifestyle. So make sure you have plenty of money left over in your bank account after you buy the RV for travel.
  3. Shop for Deals: RV pricing can fluctuate substantially, especially throughout the year. So keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and other promotions. Also, keep in mind that the best RV deals are often found during the RV off-season (October – February). So consider shopping for a travel trailer in the fall or winter months, if you’re hoping to find the best price.
  4. Shop Around for Financing: If you need to finance your RV, shop around to find the best rates and terms. And don’t forget about your local bank, as they can be a great alternative to lot financing.
  5. Don’t Forget About Used RVs: Buying a used RV can be a cost-effective way to get the RV of your dreams without breaking the bank. Also, buying a used one allows you to avoid the heavy early depreciation common on new RVs.

The Different Types of Travel Trailers a Small Truck Can Tow

There are many different types of travel trailers on the road today that a small truck can tow, and the type you choose can have a big impact on the type of camping or RVing you do.

To illustrate this point, below we’ve listed some of the most popular types of campers available today for small trucks and the style of camping they’re best suited for.

Teardrop Trailers

Cheapest Teardrop Trailer

A teardrop trailer is a small lightweight camper designed to be towed by smaller vehicles, making them ideal for small trucks.

These trailers typically have a streamlined, aerodynamic shape and are built on a small, lightweight chassis.

Teardrop campers have a basic layout and design, which often includes sleeping for two, a small simple exterior galley, and basic amenities.

However, more upgraded teardrop campers can have additional features such as awnings, rooftop tents, screen rooms, electrical systems, and heating and cooling.

Teardrop campers are a popular choice for minimalist solo or couples camping.

As the trailers provide a small basic cozy living space that’s easy to tow and set up.

To see the cheapest teardrop trailers on the market today, check out our blog post “The 12 Cheapest Teardrop Trailers You Can Buy!“.

Pop-Up Trailers

Aliner Pop Up Camper

A pop-up trailer or tent trailer is a small, lightweight camper that can be easily towed by smaller vehicles, such as small trucks.

As these trailers are not only lightweight but also have a very low profile, thanks to their pop-up design, utilizing fold-down canvas or fiberglass walls that “pop up” when the trailer is in camp mode.

Like teardrop trailers, pop-up campers typically have a basic layout, with a small kitchen area, a sleeping area, and a small amount of exterior and interior storage.

But where they differ is in their headroom and interior living space.

Because, unlike teardrop campers, pop-up campers have a fully walkable interior, due to their pop-up design.

Pop-ups are a good choice for those who want an affordable compact, lightweight RV for occasional camping trips.

To find out how affordable, check out our blog post “The 10 Cheapest Pop-Up Campers You Can Buy“.

Lightweight Travel Trailers

Casita Spirit Travel Trailer

Lightweight travel trailers are one of the most popular types of campers for small trucks.

As they provide all the features and benefits of larger full-size travel trailers just in a smaller lightweight package.

Offering a good amount of interior space as well as many amenities, like full-featured kitchens, bathrooms, plenty of sleeping capacity, and lots of storage space.

All while still being light enough to be towed by most small trucks as well as small SUVs.

Lightweight travel trailers are a good choice for those who want a bit more space and comfort, but still want to be able to easily tow their trailer with a small tow vehicle.

Toy Haulers

Toy Haulers Under 5,000 Pounds

One of the last types of travel trailers that a small truck can tow is a toy hauler, which is a cross between a travel trailer and an enclosed utility trailer.

Because while toy haulers have all the same amenities as a travel trailer, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping quarters, they also have a garage area that can be used to store and transport recreational toys.

Making them a great choice for those who want to camp and travel, while still being able to bring all their toys and recreational vehicles with them.

It’s worth noting though that due to the heavier nature of most toy haulers, many will exceed the max tow capacity for a small truck.

The good news, however, is that there are many lightweight toy haulers available today that small trucks can tow, which you can see by checking out our blog post “Top 10 Toy Haulers Under 5,000 Pounds (with Pricing)“.

Travel Trailer Sleeping Capacity and Arrangements

Travel trailer sleeping capacity can range from as few as two to more than six, depending on the size of the camper and its design.

So before choosing a travel trailer for your small truck, it’s important to consider how many people you need to sleep inside the camper as well as the level of comfort and convenience you want the camper to offer in regards to sleeping.

For example, do you want the trailer to have a separate or private sleeping area, or are you okay with everyone sleeping in the same communal area?

Also, worth considering is whether you want the trailer to offer fixed sleeping locations or whether you’re ok with converting a couch or a dinette booth into a sleeping space each night.

Travel Trailer Features and Amenities

Another important factor to consider when choosing a travel trailer for a small truck is what features and amenities you want the camper to offer.

As there can be big differences in features from one trailer to the next.

For example, minimalist-style campers will often only offer very basic accommodations, such as a place to sleep and perhaps a little bit of storage, while more feature-rich campers can offer all the comforts and conveniences of a modern home.

So when choosing a travel trailer to pair with a small truck, it’s important to think about what features you’d like the camper to offer.

To help you decide what’s important to you when looking at travel trailer build-outs.

Wrap Up

Choosing the best travel trailer for your small truck can seem overwhelming at first, due to the sheer number of travel trailers and campers on the market today.

However, we hope that our list of the 10 best travel trailers for small trucks has helped you to narrow down your search, or at least helped you figure out what you want and don’t want in a travel trailer.

Regardless of which travel trailer you end up going with though, we hope you find the perfect travel trailer for you and your family and wish you many many years of happy camping!

Jason Kidd

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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