Looking for a travel trailer under 2000 lbs? They have many benefits and serve as a great base for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors.
Traveling is a great way to break free from your regular routine cycle and relish in the beauty of mother nature. And trailer traveling is an even greater way to achieve all this while corroborating convenience, fuel efficiency, and mobility.
Although smaller trailers have their drawbacks when compared to larger trailers, but they also have their benefits. Where they lack in space they make up in efficiency, and where they lack in comfort the make up in verstaility.
There's just something about the open road, freedom of driving, and the chance to explore the wealth of nature that you get the chance to see with a smaller trailer.
In this review, we look at the best travel trailers under 2000 lbs. We also look into what makes the better ones stand out, and what features you should be looking for. We also discuss the perks of owning a smaller trailer, and why yours could turn out to be the best investment you make.
What Makes a Great Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs?
When considering to buy a travel trailer under 2000 lbs, there's a myriad of features one should be on the lookout for. These largely depend on the individual and vary from person to person. However, here are a few features that combine to deliver an overall great companion for your camping endeavors.
Solid and Sturdy Walls
The materials and construction are an important aspect of any travel trailer. So, even if your vehicle is lightweight, it must have strong, sturdy and insulated walls. The insulation provided from proper construction not only helps keep it intact when the weather gets horrific, but also keeps you warm, dry and any unwanted noise out.
Good Floor Plan
A well-designed floor plan is important because it adds to the weight of the travel trailer. Some people like to install household amenities into their space like the dining area, kitchen, bathroom, and storage.
Some people like a stove, an off-the-ground sleeping area, solar panels, entertainment accessories, but all of this adds to the weight. So, a good floor plan can help you achieve a manageable weight in terms of the trailer, so consider one that suits your needs and of course helps keep the travel trailer under 2000 lbs.
Innovative and Modular Design
With such a weight limitation, space can often be an issue. The floor plan and the components should be modular, if possible, to make it not only breathable but also comfortable. Convertible sofabeds are a great example. This makes space to fit in more people inside without bedding taking up vital room.
Tires
Manufacturers should make the suspension and tires a priority as much as the entire construction. Since one of the main uses of small RVs is off-roading. This is where a solid foundation and great tires are essential to counter the bounces due to the rough terrain.
Entertainment and Add-on Features
Features, such as TVs, DVD players, USB connections, and air conditioning are all important for different reasons, but they do make a huge impact. Sometimes after a long day of outdoor summer hiking, a movie might with the aircon on is what's needed.
Can You Really Find a High Quality Affordable Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs?
Yes, you can. In this day and age, quality and affordability are far from being trade-offs. The smaller the trailer, the less features it can have, so naturally, a travel trailer under 2000 lbs won't have all the expensive features a larger one will have, so like-for-like, it will be cheaper.
When To Use a Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs
There are many reasons you might want to use a travel trailer that weighs no more than 2000 lbs. let's take a look...
Riverside RV Retro 511 (Source)
Cheaper Travel
The biggest use of travel trailers, according to consumers, is low-cost traveling. They can help you save on excessive restaurant meals, hotels, airfare, etc. The only costs you will incur include fuel, insurance, and RV parks etc.
Camping
It’s extremely easy to set up a smaller trailer at various campsites, especially ones that limits the size of trailers allowed. This allows you more options, and we haven't even mentioned off-road camping - something that's almos impossible with a larger trailer.
Storage
Of course, a small travel trailer under 2000 lbs won't have the same storage space as bigger travel trailers, but if you compare it to camping in tents or even pure off road trailers, you'll have much more storage space.
Review of the Best Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 2000 Pounds
Now that we’ve brushed up on the features let’s look at the reviews of a few of the best travel trailers under 2000 lbs in the market today.
Best Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs:
Riverside RV Retro 511
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
These travel trailers have become really popular of late, and buyers seem to be extremely pleased by their purchase. According to the reviews, the Retro 511 is the perfect basic model for a quick getaway, whether you’re alone, a couple, or even a few friends. Many also praised the functionality and features that are included in this travel trailer.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Riverside RV Retro 511 will make your next adventure travel trip completely unforgettable. You will be traveling in comfort and style as the unit has a stylish construction build. The trailer is surprisingly spacious compared to other travel trailers under 2000 lbs.
The inside boasts a comfortable jiffy sofa for you to relax on with an option to watch TV, that is, of course, if you choose to install it on the built-in mount or opt for the additional features. And, you get plenty of storage space as well on the shelf and the wardrobe closet.
Finally, the Retro 511 features an outdoor kitchen with all the essentials for you to make yourself a delicious meal. You can store the ingredients and the leftovers in the refrigerator and even reheat them later in the built-in microwave. Pizza for breakfast anyone?
Bottom Line
This is one of the best options for a travel trailer under 2000 lbs. It has all the best features you could want when traveling, and will give you many home comforts. We recommend it to any and all travelers looking for a small camper.
Cool, Compact and Sexy Camper:
Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Some of the features recent buyers really liked were the large water tanks and the beautiful curtains that increased the ambiance of the retro looking camper. They like that many of the components were transformable: sofas and the table could convert into beds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Ideally designed for couples or small families, this Scamp standard trailer is known for its comfortable service. The trailer boasts a fiberglass construction, which offers comfort in all climates. It's a compact and lightweight design weighing only 1500 lbs, so you can easily tow it around by using your car or SUV.
The setup is extremely convenient and easily carries your personal belongings, thanks to enough storage space. You will find a rear dining area where you can enjoy your meal and later convert it into a double bed for sleeping at night. There's a sofa that can easily turn into bunk beds, so you can sleep up to four people.
The interior is smart with brown and blue cushions, carpets in addition to beige curtains. The windows are wide enough to allow plenty of natural sunlight. Finally, the fiberglass cabinets complete the look of the interior and make it a popular option for a comfortable weekend away.
Bottom Line
Anyone who knows about trailers knows that fiberglass construction allows for excellent durability and hence enhances the reliability of the model. The super insulation helps keep the inside space as comfortable as possible, and with the inclusion of a large water tank, its a great travel trailer under 2000 lbs.
A Camper with a Difference:
Aliner Classic
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
For anyone looking to enjoy a thrilling adventure, this trailer will work perfectly. Buyers love the durability it has to offer, and they like how easy it was to tow this vehicle. Most of all, buyers were happy that they chose a fiberglass exterior since it increased their model's resale value.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This trailer might look extremely small from the outside, but in reality, it can comfortably accommodate two to three people. Anyone who wants comfort and convenience without compromising on ambiance will definitely want to invest in this model. It comes with some of the best features on the market, such as an outside shower and two skylights with beautiful nightshades.
As a travel trailer, it comes in easily under 2000 lbs, and with an option for an in and out stove that helps you make better use of the limited space. You will also get slider windows that are easy to handle and provide you an excellent view of the great outdoors. On top of that, the e-coated frame enhances durability and provides longevity.
Bottom Line
Both the construction and design of the model are admirable in their own way. The panels are made with fiberglass and are vacuum-bonded to allow for ease of maintenance. Anodized aluminum is also used in the construction that enhances durability and allows you to use the model for a long time without any hassle. On top of that, the model comes with a spare tire and a carrier that comes in handy during camping trips.
Editor's Pick:
Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This travel trailer is one of the newest in the market. Most users are impressed with the design and floorplan, which makes the most of this, little retro looking travel trailer. Whether it’s a day camping trip or a weeklong outdoor getaway, many reviews said it offered all the basic comforts needed while out on the road.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Happier Camper HC1 is one of the most innovative travel trailers under 2000 lbs, not only on this list but on the market today, too. It features an advanced modular floor plan called Adaptiv System. It not only has convertible couch/bed options but a lot of additional features as well.
All the components are well-built, ultralight, and can easily be rearranged and even taken out to use outdoors. This is what further helps the entire travel trailer be just around 1100lbs in total. It can also sleep five people.
The Happier Camper HC1 is a beautiful retro-modern design that is Insta-worthy, to say the least. This is the perfect partner for the minimalist person who loves to travel, explore, live in the wilderness, and wants a creative atmosphere.
Bottom Line
All in all, this isn't the cheapest travel trailer on this list, but we think it's worth every penny as you are getting so much in such a small and light package. We can’t recommend it enough, especially for the ones who want something different and modern.
Best Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs for the Money:
Coachmen Clipper 806XLS
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users wanted convenience above everything else, and that is exactly what they got when they invested in this Coachmen Clipper 806XLS. All the features and components inside are easy to handle and come with user-friendly instructions. This made buyers really happy because they no longer had to go through difficult instruction manuals to understand the working of the system.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We didn't have to think twice before putting this pop-up camper on our list. The best thing about this trailer is its interior. It is not very big, but it still contains everything you need to make your time on the road as memorable as possible.
For starters, it comes with a large fridge that can hold all the food you will need. There are also inside and outside stove options that allow for greater diversity. The bedrooms are folded down and can sleep four people in the tent wall areas, making this much bigger than first appearance.
Bottom Line
Simplicity and efficiency are two concepts that do not always go hand in hand. If you're after a camper that's easy to handle, light, cheap to run and offers more space than you can imagine, then this is the ideal camper for you.
Perks of Getting a New Travel Trailer Under 2000 Lbs
Convenient Towing
Camper trailers are designed to be spacious, but that’s not the only benefit they offer. You have the ability to tow them quite conveniently as they weigh less than 2000 lbs.
Less Fuel and Maintenance Costs
Larger trailers tend to utilize more fuel than smaller trailers, which means higher operational costs. And of course, if you have cut down on the luxuries and amenties, you'll have less to repair so maintenance costs will also be cheaper.
Fun and Comfortable Camping
A travel trailer provides a smaller space as compared to bigger units, so an AC unit has less space to heat or cool, resulting in faster cooling or heating and retaining it for longer.
Furthermore, they are perfect for solo travelers as well as family and friends. They’re ultra-lightweight and offer greater convenience, cost-effectiveness, and mobility. All this adds to more fun and comfortable camping experiences.
Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E12RK Floorplan
Types of Travel Trailers Under 2000 Lbs
There are many types of travel trailers available on the market. The most popular models that weigh under 2000 lbs are:
Pop Up
Pop up trailers are popularly known as tent trailers. These include collapsible canvas/tent material walls that pull out to expand them. Pop-ups are usually used for shade or to make a tent right next to the trailer itself. This helps with managing space and keeping the weight as light as possible.
Such units usually have space for a queen or full-sized bed. They also often include a kitchen and a small bathroom, and are generally the most affordable types of travel trailers in the market.
Teardrop
A teardrop travel trailer was a very popular outdoor camping accessory in America back in the 30s and 40s. In the past few years, it has made a fresh comeback and is becoming quite popular again. This is because people prefer to tow with their cars rather than a large truck or an SUV. They are often shaped like teardrops, which is a notable aesthetic and makes them quite aerodynamic.
Teardrop trailers are small and compact to keep them as lightweight as possible for ease of haul. They're usually made of steel walls, holding up to the shape and size you get them at, so they do not expand like pop up trailers.
Comparison Overview
Travel trailers have unique features and discrete shapes. This portion will help you achieve a fine understanding of the specific technicalities related to these trailers. Have a look!
GVWR vs Dry Weight
Dry weight is the vehicle weight without any kind of automotive fluids present, whereas GVWR is referred to as the weight limit specified by the trailer manufacturer. This limit establishes how heavy the vehicle is capable of being before it reaches a level that’s deemed unsafe.
What is Dry Weight on a Camper?
As mentioned earlier, the vehicle's total weight without any cargo, passenger, or fluids is called dry weight. Dy weight and curb weight might be similar, but the difference is that you exclude any kind of automotive fluid needed for operation in the former.
What is GVWR on a Travel Trailer?
GVWR on a travel trailer means the maximum loaded weight of the trailer or vehicle, which is recommended by the manufacturer. It includes not only the weight associated with the cargo and passengers but also the weight of the vehicle itself. This gross vehicle weight rating is ensured to determine safety.
Aliner vs Teardrop
The name of both campers originates from their shape. As a result, Aliners are shaped like an A. The teardrop trailer, on the other hand, is shaped somewhat like a teardrop. Here’s how the two compare:
Towing
Both Aliner and teardrop campers are very easy to tow. When Aliners are folded down, they are very lightweight and are generally easy to tow. Similarly, teardrop trailers tend to be lighter than other models, so they're cheaper to haul as less fuel is utilized.
Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer (Source)
Capacity
The capacity associated with both types of trailers is similar as well, whereby they're perfect for a single person or couple camping. Thus, in essence, they can cater to two people while ensuring comfort.
Headroom Space
An advantage that Aliner campers have over teardrop campers is plenty of headroom space. When you are inside an Aliner, you won't feel claustrophobic. Also, you can stand straight up without any difficulties if you’re too tall. Hence, headroom is where Aliners have an advantage because you can’t enjoy it in teardrop campers.
Travel Trailers Under 2000 lbs FAQs
What Can You Tow With 2000 Lbs?
You can easily make use of small SUVs or pickup trucks to tow your camper trailer that weighs around 2000 lbs. But you need to keep in mind that not all SUVs can handle the weight of the travel trailer. You need to do a fair amount of research to see which SUV fits bets to your requirements.
According to us, Ford EcoSport, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, Volvo XC40, and Land Rover Discovery Sport are some examples that fit the criteria.
How Much Do Travel Trailers Weigh?
Travel trailers come in a wide variety of designs as well as weights. The weight varies anywhere from 1000 to 9000 lbs. But, the average dry weight of travel trailers is around 5200 lbs.
How Much Does a Teardrop Trailer Weigh?
Teardrops are generally designed to be lightweight and compact. So, every type of teardrop trailer you find in the market is generally going to be less than 4000 lbs.
Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer (Source)
What Size Travel Trailer Can I Tow?
This really depends on the car you own as well as the travel trailer under your possession. Different cars have different capacities when it comes to how heavy of a travel trailer they can tow. And the more heavy-duty your car is, the bigger trailer you’ll be able to tow as a result.
Is It Difficult to Tow Travel Trailers Under 2,000 Pounds?
No, not. In fact, one of the main advantages of travel trailers under 2000 lbs is that they’re extremely easy to tow.
What Makes a Camper Trailer Ultra Lightweight?
The materials used in flooring, cabinets, and accents given inside the whole camper trailer are responsible for deciding its weight. So, if companies decide to use lighter components and materials in place of heavier ones, that will make the camper trailer ultra-lightweight.
How Much Does a Small Camper Weigh?
A small camper weighs anywhere from 600 to 3100 lbs.
Do Travel Trailers Under 2000 Lbs Have a Bathroom?
Yes, some models in the market weigh less than 2000 lbs and feature an installed bathroom. Some also come with an outdoor shower to help maximise space.
The Best Travel Trailers Under 2000 Lbs
So there you have it, and now you know bigger isn't always better. Travel trailers are generally the most affordable RVs, and the smaller you go, the cheaper they tend to get.
But that doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the luxuries. Sure, some have to go, but people who want a small travel trailer under 2000 lbs, tend to want a more adventurous trip, and you definitely get this with smaller campers.
We recommend all of the above, but don't let this be your only research. There's a link to the above websites, so you can take a closer look, but do compare with other models before you go for your preferred option.
