Travel trailers come in a variety of sizes and weights, ranging from tiny teardrop campers that are less than 1,000 pounds to full-time luxury campers tipping the scales at almost 10,000 pounds.
However, one of the most sought-after RV categories is travel trailers that weigh less than 3,000 pounds, as these trailers are typically self-contained campers with all the standard RV amenities while maintaining a weight light enough to be towed by a variety of vehicles, including small trucks and SUVs.
These compact and nimble trailers, however, can often be difficult to find, as there are hundreds of different campers on the market at any given time.
So to help you find the perfect lightweight travel trailer, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular models under 3,000 pounds.
Popular Travel Trailer Models Under 3,000 Pounds (Lightest to Heaviest)
| Make/Model/Trim | Dry Weight | Length | Sleeping Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer ⬇ | 2,200 lbs | 16′ | 4 |
| 2. Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD ⬇ | 2,240 lbs | 18′ | 4 |
| 3. KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB ⬇ | 2,350 lbs | 16′ 9″ | 3 |
| 4. Forest River R-Pod RP-171 ⬇ | 2,449 lbs | 19′ | 4 |
| 5. Casita Spirit Deluxe ⬇ | 2,480 lbs | 17′ | 3 |
| 6. Airstream Basecamp 16 ⬇ | 2,650 lbs | 16′ 2″ | 2 |
| 7. Riverside RV Retro 135 ⬇ | 2,680 lbs | 15′ 9″ | 3 |
| 8. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH ⬇ | 2,690 lbs | 18′ | 4 |
| 9. Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH ⬇ | 2,810 lbs | 20′ 11 | 5 |
| 10. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB ⬇ | 2,846 lbs | 15′ 8″ | 3 |
| 11. Forest River Viking 17SBH ⬇ | 2,896 lbs | 20′ 5″ | 5 |
| 12. Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH ⬇ | 2,896 lbs | 20′ 5″ | 5 |
1. Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $17,000
- Dry Weight: 2,200 – 2,600 Pounds
- Length: 16 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 3 – 4
- Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
While Scamp’s 13-foot trailer often gets most of the attention, the Scamp 16-foot trailer is also a great option for those looking for a lightweight camper under 3,000 pounds.
Available in two different versions, including the standard and the deluxe featured here, the Scamp 16 is a lightweight fiberglass camper with a dry weight that ranges from 2,200 pounds to 2,600 pounds, depending on its floor plan and options.
Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer Layout C
The Scamp 16 Deluxe is available in 4 different layouts and like all Scamp trailers is completely customizable, as each Scamp is custom-built for the end user.
Scamp uses a direct-to-consumer approach with no RV dealer middleman. Allowing you to get the perfect lightweight camper designed specifically for you and your family.
The downside of this approach though is often a long drawn-out buying process, as the waitlist for one of these trailers is often 6 months or more.
To learn more about the Scamp 16 Deluxe and to see all its floorplan options, check out Scamp’s website here.
2. Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $16,000
- Dry Weight: 2,240 Pounds
- Length: 18 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD is not only an ultra-lightweight travel trailer under 3,000 pounds, but it’s also one of the cheapest self-contained campers you can buy.
As this sub $20,000 camper has an average price of just $16,000, yet still offers all the standard RV amenities, including a four-person sleeping capacity, a full-featured kitchen, and a small wet bath.
This compact travel trailer measures 18 feet in length and has a dry weight of just over 2,200 pounds, making it easy to tow with most SUVs and even some crossovers.
Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD Floorplan
Despite its small size, however, the Bushwhacker Plus 17FD still manages to pack in a surprising amount of features and amenities.
The interior features a queen-sized bed at the rear, with a convertible dinette at the front that can sleep an additional two people.
The kitchen comes equipped with a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a sink, providing all the essentials for preparing meals on the go.
The wet bath, although compact, includes a toilet and shower, and gets the job done, especially for short weekend outings.
As mentioned above though, one of the best things about the Bushwhacker Plus 17FD is its affordability.
With an average price of just $16,000, this ultra-lightweight travel trailer is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the RV lifestyle without breaking the bank.
To learn more about the Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD, check out Braxton Creek’s website here.
3. KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $16,000
- Dry Weight: 2,350 Pounds
- Length: 16 Feet 9 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
Another popular affordable lightweight camper is the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB, which has an average price of just $16,000 and a dry weight of only 2,350 pounds.
This compact trailer measures just 16 feet 9 inches in length, making it easy to tow.
Despite its small size, however, the Sportsmen Classic 130RB offers a comfortable and functional living space for up to three people.
Offering a convertible dinette that can be transformed into a sleeping area for two, as well as a separate sofa, that can sleep one more.
The camper also comes equipped with a well-appointed kitchen, which includes a sink, a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, and a refrigerator.
KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB Floorplan
One of the stand-out features of this ultra-lightweight camper from KZ RV though is its bathroom, as it’s one of the smallest campers you can buy with a dry bath.
To see other compact travel trailers with a dry bath, check out our blog post “10 Smallest Travel Trailers with a Dry Bath“.
While this ultra-lightweight travel trailer doesn’t have any slide-outs, its well-designed layout maximizes the available space, ensuring that you have room to move around comfortably.
The Sportsmen Classic 130RB also comes with a variety of standard features, such as a power awning, outdoor speakers, and LED lighting, enhancing your overall camping experience.
With its affordable price tag, lightweight design, and essential amenities, the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a budget-friendly compact camper.
To learn more about the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB and take a 360-degree virtual tour, visit KZ RV’s website here.
4. Forest River R-Pod RP-171
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $22,000
- Dry Weight: 2,449 Pounds
- Length: 19 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Forest River R-Pod RP-171, now known as the R-Pod RP-171C Classic, has been one of the most popular lightweight campers for more than a decade.
First released in 2008, the R-Pod RP-171 was an instant crowd favorite, thanks to its aerodynamic teardrop shape, family-friendly floorplan, and full-featured interior.
Fast forward to today, and Forest River has reintroduced the RP-171 as the RP-171C Classic, bringing back many of the original features and design elements that made this model so beloved.
With a dry weight of just 2,449 pounds and a total length of 19 feet (including the tongue), this ultra-lightweight travel trailer went on a diet, shaving more than 400 pounds in its redesign.
Forest River R-Pod RP-171 Floorplan
Inside, the RP-171C Classic boasts a warm and inviting interior with weathered wood-look walls, a reclaimed wood-style table, and slate cabinetry with stylish gold fixtures.
The dinette area comfortably seats four and can be converted into an additional sleeping space when needed, which when combined with the rear queen bed brings the total sleeping capacity of the trailer to four.
The wet bath, although compact, includes a toilet, sink, and shower, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping trip.
Plus, the trailer also offers a full-featured kitchenette complete with butcher block countertops, a propane cooktop, a convection microwave oven, a small round sink, a mini-fridge, and plenty of cabinet space.
Other notable features include a high-efficiency roof-mounted air conditioner, a 20-pound propane tank, and generously sized holding tanks (30 gallons each for fresh, gray, and black water).
The RP-171C Classic also comes equipped with Azdel sidewall construction and a one-piece fiberglass roof, ensuring excellent weather protection and longevity.
With its perfect blend of classic styling, modern amenities, and ultra-lightweight design, the RP-171C Classic is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a versatile and easy-to-tow travel trailer that offers all the comforts of home in a compact package.
To learn more about the Forest River R-Pod RP-171 and to take a 3D tour, visit Forest River’s website here.
5. Casita Spirit Deluxe
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $26,996
- Dry Weight: 2,480 Pounds
- Length: 17 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Casita Spirit Deluxe is similar to the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer from above, as they’re both lightweight molded fiberglass travel trailers.
However, the Casita Spirit Deluxe offers a slightly larger floor plan at a slightly higher cost.
With a starting price of $26,996, the Casita Spirit Deluxe is a 17-foot travel trailer that weighs just 2,480 pounds (dry weight).
This ultra-lightweight trailer can comfortably sleep up to three people, making it an ideal choice for couples or small families.
Casita Spirit Deluxe Floorplan
One of the best features of the Casita Spirit Deluxe is its 3-piece wet bath, which includes a toilet, shower, and a small bathroom sink.
The interior of the Casita Spirit Deluxe features a well-designed layout that maximizes the available space.
The trailer also includes a compact yet fully functional kitchenette with a large stainless steel sink, a two-burner cooktop with a glass cover for extra counter space, and a good-sized mini fridge. Allowing you to cook just about any meal you could want from the road and while traveling.
The Spirit Deluxe is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, lightweight travel trailer with class-leading durability and features.
For more information on the Casita Spirit Deluxe and to take a virtual tour, check out Casita’s website here.
6. Airstream Basecamp 16
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $50,000
- Dry Weight: 2,650 Pounds
- Length: 16 Feet 2 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 2
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Airstream Basecamp 16 stands out as a best-in-class lightweight camper, notwithstanding its high price tag, as its average cost of $50,000 makes it the most expensive camper on this list.
Surprisingly though, despite its eye-popping price, the Basecamp 16 is actually the cheapest airstream you can buy.
But what makes the Airstream Basecamp 16 so expensive?
Well, it turns out quite a few things, because as the old saying goes “You get what you pay for”.
Weighing a mere 2,650 pounds unloaded and stretching just 16 feet 2 inches long, the Basecamp 16 is a breeze to tow behind most small tow vehicles.
Don’t let its compact size fool you, though, as this trailer packs a punch when it comes to versatility and functionality.
Airstream Basecamp 16 Floorplan
Designed for adventurers who like to camp off-grid in the backcountry, at the heart of this Airstream Basecamp lies its ingeniously designed rear area, a chameleon-like space that effortlessly transforms from a cozy dinette to a lounge area or a comfortable sleeping space for two.
The kitchen, though compact, is also remarkably well-equipped, boasting a two-burner cooktop, a sink, a microwave, a 3 cubic-foot refrigerator with a small freezer, and panoramic windows.
And when it’s time to clean up, the wet bath, complete with a toilet and shower, ensures that you have all the creature comforts you need, even in the middle of nowhere.
Plus, as you might expect from a camper designed for boondocking, the Basecamp 16 is also loaded with off-grid and off-road features, that make extended stays in the backcountry not only possible but enjoyable as well.
One of the best features of the Basecamp 16 though is its rear door, which makes loading and unloading gear like kayaks, bicycles, or skis a breeze.
Wrapped in Airstream’s iconic riveted aluminum exterior, the Basecamp 16 is not just a pretty face, as it’s a rugged, weather-resistant warrior ready to tackle any adventure.
And if you opt for the X-Package, you’ll get even more off-road capability with a 3-inch lift kit and all-terrain tires.
Yes, the Airstream Basecamp 16 may come with a higher price tag, but it’s a small price to pay for the unparalleled quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that Airstream is renowned for.
To learn more about the Airstream Basecamp 16, check out Airstream’s website here.
7. Riverside RV Retro 135
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $17,000
- Dry Weight: 2,680 Pounds
- Length: 15 Feet 9 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
One of the most unique lightweight travel trailers on this list is the Riverside RV Retro 135, thanks to its one-of-a-kind retro styling.
As Riverside RV went to great effort to craft and style this tiny camper to look like a vintage trailer that you might have seen going down the road in the 1950s.
From its colorful two-tone aluminum siding on the exterior to its retro interior designed to look like a 1950s diner.
There’s more to this compact camper though than just retro styling, as the Retro 135 packs a surprising amount of functionality into its small 16-foot frame.
With a dry weight of just 2,680 pounds, this ultra-lightweight trailer can be easily towed by a wide range of vehicles.
Riverside RV Retro 135 Floorplan
Inside, the Retro 135 features a unique layout with a jackknife sofa on one side and a small kitchen on the other.
While the trailer doesn’t have a traditional dinette (unless you opt for the optional two-person booth), the sofa provides a comfortable seating area that can also be converted into additional sleeping space.
The kitchen, though compact, includes a 6 cubic foot gas/electric two-way absorption fridge, a two-burner cooktop, and a small sink.
At the front of the trailer, you’ll find a full-size bed that accommodates a camp queen mattress and offers headboard storage as well as power outlets/USB ports.
Perhaps best of all though is that despite its small size, the Retro 135 manages to include a bathroom with a separate toilet and shower.
With its eye-catching retro style, practical features, and ultra-lightweight design, the Riverside RV Retro 135 is a unique and appealing option great for solo travelers, couples, or even small families looking for a fun and functional compact camper.
For more information on the Riverside RV Retro 135, check our Riverside RV here.
8. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $18,000
- Dry Weight: 2,690 Pounds
- Length: 18 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
While Jayco is typically known for producing large full-size travel trailers well over the 3,000-pound threshold, they do make one small lightweight travel trailer under that mark.
Part of the Jay Flight SLX lineup, the 154BH is the smallest and lightest travel trailer that Jayco makes, with an overall length of 18 feet and a dry weight of 2,690 pounds.
Despite its compact size though, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH is still loaded with comfort and convenience features.
In addition, the interior also offers a modern decor with bright and airy colors, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere.
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH Floorplan
Starting at the front of the trailer, you’ll find a dinette that can be converted into a sleeping area, while the rear features double bunk beds, making it an excellent choice for small families or groups of friends.
The kitchen is well-equipped with a two-burner propane cooktop, a microwave, and a large 12-volt refrigerator.
Sharing the back wall with the bunk beds is a surprisingly spacious two-piece dry bath that features a separate toilet and oversized shower. The bathroom also features a skylight, adding extra headroom and natural light.
On the exterior, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH features a power awning with LED lighting, outside speakers, and an exterior griddle for outdoor cooking.
The trailer also includes a pass-through storage compartment, perfect for storing larger items like camping gear or outdoor equipment.
With its ultra-lightweight design, family-friendly layout, and impressive array of features, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH is an excellent option for those looking for a compact and easy-to-tow travel trailer that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or functionality.
For more info on the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH and to take a 3D tour, visit Jayco’s website here.
9. Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $15,000
- Dry Weight: 2,810 Pounds
- Length: 20 Feet 11 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
There are many reasons why RVers love the Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH, the three main ones though are its affordable price, large size, and high sleeping capacity.
Starting first with its price, the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH is not only one of the cheapest campers you can buy under 3,000 pounds but it’s one of the cheapest period. As you’d be hard-pressed to find a less expensive trailer, especially one as large as the 177BH.
Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH Floorplan
This leads to the next reason why people love this camper, which is its large size, as the 177BH is one of the largest travel trailers you can buy and still stay under 3,000 pounds.
Which allows the trailer to offer far more interior space than a typical sub-3,000 travel trailer.
And finally, the last reason why this camper is so popular with RVers is its high sleeping capacity.
As the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH offers a five-person sleeping capacity, thanks to its bunkhouse layout, which features a front east-to-west full-size bed, a convertible dinette booth, and rear single bunk beds.
For more information on the Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH, check out Gulf Stream’s website by clicking here.
10. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $23,500
- Dry Weight: 2,846 Pounds
- Length: 15 Feet 8 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: 3-Piece Wet Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB is one of the most well-equipped lightweight campers on the market, plus, it’s also one of the few small campers to offer twin beds.
This compact travel trailer has a dry weight of just 2,846 pounds and a total length of 15 feet 8 inches.
Despite its small size, however, the Geo Pro G15TB packs a surprising amount of features and amenities into its well-designed interior.
Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB Floorplan
The rear living area features a convertible dinette that can be transformed into a comfortable bed for two or one king-sized bed. The dinette is also flanked by large windows with MCD blackout roller shades, providing plenty of natural light and privacy when needed.
The front kitchen, though compact, is well-equipped with a three-burner stove with a glass folding top, a single-basin stainless steel sink, and a microwave. The kitchen also features one of the largest 12-volt refrigerators you’ll find in a travel trailer under 3,000 pounds, with double doors and a separate freezer.
The Geo Pro G15TB also includes a wet bath, which provides all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The bathroom features a combined toilet and shower, as well as a dry storage hatch and additional storage on the wall.
The technology package on the Geo Pro G15TB is what makes this loaded camper stand out from the crowd though, as it offers a 200-watt solar panel, a 1,800-watt inverter, and a 30-amp charge controller, all powered by Go Power.
Which allows you to stay off-grid for extended periods, making it ideal for boondocking and remote camping.
With its impressive features, ultra-lightweight design, and versatile layout, the Geo Pro G15TB is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a well-equipped and adventure-ready compact travel trailer.
To learn more about the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB and to take a 3D tour, visit Forest River’s website here.
11. Forest River Viking 17SBH
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $16,500
- Dry Weight: 2,896 Pounds
- Length: 20 Feet 5 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
The Forest River Viking 17SBH is similar in many ways to the above Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH, as they’re both about the same size and offer the same bunkhouse layout.
They even have similar prices, as they’re only separated on average by a few thousand dollars.
However, the Viking 17SBH does have a few unique features that set it apart, which is why it’s the top-selling single-axle bunk model floorplan in the industry, according to Forest River.
To see other in-demand Forest River floorplans, check out our blog post “10 of the Most Popular Forest River Travel Trailer Floor Plans“.
Forest River Viking 17SBH Floorplan
Inside, the Viking 17SBH offers a comfortable and well-designed living space. The front of the trailer features a full-size bed with ample storage above and below. The dinette, which can be converted into an additional sleeping space, sits opposite a compact kitchen.
One of the standout features of the interior though is the amount of cabinet space available. Despite its small size, the Viking 17SBH manages to include plenty of storage for clothing, food, and other essentials.
The rear of the trailer is dedicated to a set of bunk beds, perfect for kids or extra guests.
The bathroom, while compact, and lacking a bathroom sink is a dry bath, which is always preferable to a wet bath, especially on those longer camping trips.
With a gross vehicle weight rating of just 3,943 pounds and a cargo capacity of 1,047 pounds, the Viking 17SBH is a lightweight and easy-to-manage travel trailer that still offers plenty of features and comfort for families looking to get out and explore the great outdoors.
For more information on the Forest River Viking 17SBH and to take a 3D tour, check out Forest River’s website here.
12. Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $16,500
- Dry Weight: 2,896 Pounds
- Length: 20 Feet 5 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Bathroom: 2-Piece Dry Bath
- Slide-Outs: N/A
While the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH and the Viking 17SBH are very similar campers, those similarities pale in comparison, when looking at the Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH and the above Forest River Viking 17SBH.
As the Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH is pretty much the same trailer compared to the Forest River Viking 17SBH, with the exact same weight, length, layout, and even average price.
Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH Floorplan
How is this possible though, and why would two different RV manufacturers make pretty much the exact same trailer?
Well, the answer has a lot to do with the fact that Forest River owns Coachmen RV.
Because of this, their RV lineups often have a lot of overlap, with Forest River/Coachmen making a lot of similar travel trailers just with different makes, models, and trim levels.
So what does this mean for the end customer, not a whole lot, just know that whether you’re looking at a Clipper 3K Series 17CBH or a Viking 17SBH, you’re looking at pretty much the same RV, just with a different name.
To learn more about the Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH and to take a 3D tour, visit Coachmen here.
Additional Travel Trailer Resources:
- Do Travel Trailers Have Generators? A Beginner’s Guide
- Are Travel Trailers Insulated for Winter? Find Out!
- 10 Must-See Travel Trailer Floor Plans (With Slide-Outs)
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