Travel trailers are extremely popular throughout the world, but large campers and fifth wheelers are out of many people's price reach. Not travel trailers under 3000 lbs, though!
Sure, you give up on some luxuries, but the best travel trailers under 3000 lbs offer many benefits while living life out on the road.
They're lightweight so are easier and cheaper to tow, and can be done with pretty much any truck or SUV. Their compact size also means you'll have more options with RV parks, something larger trailers sometimes struggle with.
But what are the best models on the market? We've reviewed a few to show you what you can get with a travel trailer under 3000 lbs.
As well as reviewing individual trailers, we've included a buyer's guide so you know what general characteristics to look for when shopping for a small travel trailer. And if you have any unanswered questions, we've included an FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailers that come in at under 3000lbs.
Happier Camper HC1 (Source)
What is a Travel Trailer Under 3000 Best For?
A travel trailer under 3000 lbs is a small camper, so if you want luxury and space, you are in the wrong place. But they do have their benefits, and are better in certain situations than their bigger brothers.
Camping
The biggest reason people buy these trailers is that they allow for a good camping experience. There is only a small truck or SUV needed to tow it, and the small size of the trailer allows you to park it just about anywhere. Since it's lightweight, you can also take it to heights and enjoy campsites that would be difficult to experience with a fifth wheel or other large RV.
Residence
A lot of people also use travel trailers as permanent residence areas, because they contain almost all the basic components that you need for a smooth living experience. There's ample space for a bed that transforms into a table. There are also storage cabinets and a shower area.
Travel trailers under 3000 lbs are smaller, but you can use them as a residency if you really want the adventure. Some allow for both indoor and outdoor kitchen stoves to make the best use of space. And best of all, the cost of living inside a trailer is much less than living in an actual home.
Renting
This isn’t the prime reason people invest in travel trailers, but it's a good way to earn some passive income. You can rent out your trailer to friends or family or even outsiders for a week or two when you are not using it. And, you can use the vehicle for storage when you aren’t using it for residence or camping.
Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailer (Source)
Can You Really Find a Quality Travel Trailer Under 3000 Lbs That’s Affordable?
One look at the travel trailers mentioned in this review will confirm that you can surely find quality travel trailers that are under 3000 lbs. Another reason why they're considered of good quality is that they fulfill their purpose: a good base for your road trips.
These trailers come with a range of components that are transformable, meaning a bed can transform into a table, and storage cabinets can be transformed into kitchen counters. This not only saves space but also means you can use it for longer than weekend trips.
Characteristics of Our Favorite Travel Trailers Under 3000 Lbs
The market is full of brands that compromise durability and efficiency, and we don’t want you to end up with the wrong trailer. So before you look for your favorite travel trailer, know what you are looking for.
Affordability
Many people invest in smaller travel trailers because they want affordability. A good option will provide all the amenities you want without breaking the bank. Unlike large motorhomes, you won't have to spend a lot of money on fuel or maintenance either.
And, the truck needed to pull a compact trailer doesn't have to be very large either, and the cost of towing it won't be too much, especially in these days of extortionate gas prices.
Ease of Usage
All the camping trailers that we have mentioned in this review are easy to use. Life on the road shouldn't be about rocket science, especially if you're only getting away for weekend trips. All appliances and accessories are easy to use, any beds and tables are easily converted.
Easy and Affordable Maintenance
Travel trailers are not only cheap, but smaller travel campers allow for affordable maintenance. Since they don’t have any drive trains, and their smaller size means they require minimal care. Always keep the trailer's wheels and tires in good shape, make sure you get a good snow cover for the winter, and you'll be keeping on top of things.
Review of the Best Travel Trailers Under 3000 Lbs
There are many options available in the market, and each one will suit a different user. Here are some of our favourite small trailers under 3000 lbs.
Best Overall Travel Trailer Under 3000 lbs:
Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E12RK
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users seem to love this lightweight and very easy-to-tow travel trailer. Because it’s only around 1252 lb, almost any small SUV or fuel-efficient car can tow it with ease. Users also enjoyed the built-in entertainment rig that comes with this trailer, which helps relax after an adventurous outdoor experience.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E12RK is one of the best travel trailers under 3000 lbs on the market right now. Though it is a basic model, it still packs quite a heavy punch, and gives you a great base for your outdoor excursions.
It comes with a full-size bed for the comfort of two adults. If you get bored watching movies on pre-mounted TV, you can go outside to cook and enjoy a nice barbecue. To make life easier in the kitchen, the trailer comes with a refrigerator and a microwave as well.
Lastly, you get a decent amount of storage to store all your essentials in the built-in cupboards as well.
Bottom Line
This is the perfect small trailer for any adventure and travel enthusiast. The Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E12RK includes all the right and essential features and much more. If it's a nimble travel trailer you want, you should take a closer look at this one.
Runner Up:
Jayco Hummingbird 10RK
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users of this amazing travel trailer appreciate the minor upgrades that Jayco has implemented in their 2020 design. One of these is the better suspension and Norco frame to reduce the bounce experienced on rough terrains. Many have also pointed out the vast options of storage in such a small package.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Jayco Hummingbird 10RK is one of the most functional and tactical travel trailers available. The company knows what the customers want and has beautifully integrated all of it in its lightweight and compact RVs. Firstly, you get storage options inside the cabin and in the rear kitchen area, and there’s even exterior storage on the side.
Another great implementation is with their Goodyear® 15" mud radial tires that include self-adjusting brakes as well. This, paired with the Dexter rubber-torsion axle, will help you easily take the small trailer on even your off-roading adventures. The foundation of this trailer is also extremely well-built.
If that's not enough, you get a convertible queen-sized bed which is extremely comfortable. You can take the LED TV out from the back and install it in the interior TV mount too. The Jayco Hummingbird 10RK also features excellent ventilation with an option for an air conditioner as well. Lastly, the kitchen in the rear comes with a sink, refrigerator, and microwave.
Bottom Line
We’re especially fond of this trailer for a multitude of reasons, and is the perfect travel trailer for people who like off-roading adventures. It can go anywhere you want it to without any trouble at all. You get not only a comfortable getaway place but also one that is durable and can withstand the rigors of the off road.
Best Travel Trailer Under 3000 lbs for the Money:
Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12SRK
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers of this small RV have left raving reviews of all the functions and features they got. Notably, the spacious floor plan, which makes good use of the combined living/sleeping area. Many say it boasts all the essentials you'd need and expect in any small cmaper.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12SRK is an amazingly well-built and well-designed travel trailer. You get all the best features in a compact and lightweight construction of around 1763lbs, making it easily haulable by any smaller vehicle.
The interior is in a pleasant light-toned aesthetic with a gaucho couch, which can be doubled as a bed. So after you're done wandering the countryside, you can relax, watch your favorite movies and get a good night's rest. It also features a decent air conditioning system, so hot or cold temperatures won’t be an issue inside.
In addition, there's an amazing outdoor kitchen with a griddle hook up so you can enjoy a steak on while out in the wilderness, or of course a veggie burger if you so please. Inside there's a refrigerator, sink, and microwave, too. This small RV also provides sufficient storage both in cupboards and in the exterior storage space.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this particular camper is one of the bigger travel trailers under 2000 lbs, and it certainly offers as much as any other if not more. It comes with all the basic features and that bit more. It's slightly more expensive than the others, but still very reasonable.
The Coolest Camper in Town:
Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailer
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many re-occurring comments include the large water tanks and the interior decor which added to the whole camping experience. 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, this Scamp standard trailer is known for its unique look and thorough construction. The trailer is made of fiberglass, 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. There's 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 actually 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
Scamp trailers are unique and anyone who really wants something that will not only keep them comfortable, but really enhance your camping experience should consider one of these. There are bigger ones, so if this 13 foot Scamp trailer is too small, check out the website and maybe look to order a larger one.
Honorable Mention:
Forest River R-Pod
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
While choosing a trailer for themselves, buyers are often very particular about their bathroom and showering needs. They want to enjoy hygiene and comfort even while they are camping. This is one reason why they love this small travel trailer by Forest River. There's a full shower inside that comes with surrounded curtains and a six-gallon DSI hot water heater that comes in handy during colder temperatures.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of this model's best features is that it is very compact yet offers enough space to hold all the important accessories inside. The trailer is only twenty feet in length and offers a seamless fiberglass roof for added protection.
It comes with sidewalls made with welded aluminum and floors that are equally durable. There is also a two-tone gel-coated exterior that not only makes it look very attractive and resistant to harsh temperatures.
The trailer also boasts a hitch weight of only 332 pounds, which means that it is towable by most crossovers, small trucks, or even SUVs. And, every amenity is catered for inside, including a large bed, heater, TV, kitchen and dinette area.
Bottom Line
If you're looking to feel at home on the road, this is up there with the best trailer under 3000 lbs. It features not only spacious bathroom facilities but also luxurious bedding, along with the queen bed. There's also a LED flat-screen that you can use to watch your favorite shows from the comfort of your bed. On top of that, you get plenty of space to enjoy cooking food in the kitchen.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Travel Trailers Under 3000 Lbs
Travel trailers are popular, and the introduction of compact designs is opening up the market ever more. But nothing is perfect, so let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of owning one...
Advantages
Easy to Tow
This is undoubtedly the biggest advantage of getting a smaller travel trailer under 3000 lbs. With large trailers and fifth wheels, you need to buy a special truck sometimes to tow them. With these trailers, you can use just about any truck or SUV. This saves additional costs because you won’t have to upgrade your towing vehicle.
Versatility
Many people think that since these trailers are small, they aren't as versatile as larger RVs, but that's simply not true. The main difference between them is the size, but smaller trailers are specifically designed to make most of the tiny spaces. They offer a range of amenities and functions that result in comfortable camping.
Can Fit in Any Campsite
One of the biggest advantages of investing in such a vehicle is that you don't have to worry about the area of the RV parks. Their compact and space-saving design allows you to camp at your favorite spots without feeling too restricted. And, since they require a smaller vehicle to tow them, this increases your options.
Coachmen Clipper 806XLS (Source)
Disadvantages
People Restriction
Since these are smaller spaces, you can’t plan a trip with more than four or, at most, five friends. Even with a small number of people, you will have to compromise comfort and convenience.
Smaller Water Tanks
If you are looking to feel at home in your trailer, it might not be possible. This is because these often come with smaller water tanks and hardly any space for showering.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
Travel trailers provide good safety; however, as with almost any other vehicle, you need to be aware of some factors before you invest. Here are some of the things you need to look out for, so you don’t get into any trouble later on:
Weight Distribution
If you want to enhance road safety and improve comfort levels for you and your family, you need to ensure that the weight is properly distributed throughout your trailer. If you plan to carry a lot of stuff on your camping trips, you may need to buy a trailer slightly larger than 3000 pounds.
However, if you only plan on carrying the basics like food supplies and clothes, then a trailer up to 3000 pounds is fine too. You will also have to keep the towing capacity of your truck in mind.
Transformable Components
It is no secret that these trailers aren't very large, so you should not expect them to make you feel at home completely. However, certain things can improve your comfort in the campsites. You need to look out for vehicles that offer the maximum number of transformable components. This means that, ideally, your bed should also be able to transform into a dinner table. Similarly, your cabinets should be able to transform into shelves or kitchen counters.
Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailer (Source)
Drainage System
Another system that a lot of people are conscious of is the drainage system. You will want to enjoy the convenience and still be able to apply all your hygienic practices. This can be quite a challenge with a trailer that does not offer a good drainage system. There are two options, and you can hence look for one that suits you.
Comparison Overview
You might often find yourself confused between two different trailers, and you must make the best decision for yourself. In this section, we have tried to tackle a few main issues of debate among potential buyers. We hope this comparison overview clears out any confusion and helps you make an informed decision.
Jayco Hummingbird vs R-Pod
If you are looking for a compact trailer that is not very expensive, you should definitely look at the R-pod. It's great value, lightweight and comes with a higher aesthetic appeal on both outside as well as the inside.
It's built to resemble residential homes so you can enjoy greater comfort whilst you are on the road, but a major downside to this is that it cannot accommodate large groups.
Jayco Hummingbird is undoubtedly one of the best and most revered travel trailers in the market. It comes with a low-profile design that holds its own during harsh weather and unfavorable conditions. It offers 13,500 BTU and comes with a diverse carrier jack. And, this model is slightly bigger and can accommodate more people than the R-Pod.
Forest River R-Pod (Source)
Wood Frame vs Aluminum Frame Travel Trailers
Wood-framed trailers existed in the market long before aluminum trailers were introduced. Wood is undoubtedly stronger than aluminum and hence allows for more durability. Wood tends to enhance the trailer's aesthetic appeal and is preferred by some users, but a major downside to wood is that it is heavier and often requires more maintenance.
On the other hand, aluminum trailers tend to be relatively lightweight and are thus easier to tow. They also provide much better oil mileage and reduce the overall cost of maintenance. That said, aluminum frame trailers come with laminated walls that are prone to devastating delamination with time.
Aluminum vs Fiberglass Travel Trailer
Most travel trailers are made with either aluminum or fiberglass, and though these two materials are equally desirable, some features make aluminum models much more reliable. Aluminum sliding is relatively lightweight, and hence trailers made with this material can be pulled behind any vehicle with a low towing capacity. Moreover, this material tends to be less costly.
Aluminum is also slightly better than fiberglass in terms of maintenance. It reduces condensation and prevents the growth of mold and mildew. On the other hand, fiberglass is preferred because it holds its resale value much better than aluminum does. Moreover, fiberglass trailers tend to allow for better gas mileage.
Happier Camper HC1 (Source)
Travel Trailers Under 3000lbs FAQs
Travel trailers under 3000lbs are slightly lighter than your average camper, but you can stay comfortably in one. If there are any questions you still have unanswered, I'm sure you'll find them here...
Can You Live Year Round in a Travel Trailer?
A travel trailer that provides all the basic amenities of life can be used for residential purposes, and you can live inside it for as long as you want. These vehicles usually come with showers, bathroom sinks, and even a bed and a sofa. One of the downsides of one under 3000lbs, is that they aren't ideal for families or groups, especially for extended periods.
Is a Camper Trailer a Good Investment?
Investing in a trailer that is under 3000 pounds is one of the best things that you can do for yourself. They're especially good if you want a base for your road trips and aren't looking for long term living.
How Much Does a 13 Foot Scamp Trailer Cost?
If you like the idea of a small travel trailer that can also provide you with enough space to sleep and relax, then you should consider the 13-foot Scamp trailer. It is very affordable, and the starting price is only $11,500. The cost goes up to around $16,995 if you choose additional features or if you opt for a bigger model.
How Much Does an R Pod Weigh?
A Rpod is one of the most popular travel trailers in the market and one of the most durable. Its dry weight is around 2504 pounds, and the cargo weight is around 748 pounds. Additionally, both the freshwater and grey water capacity is around 30 gallons.
How Much Does a Small Camper Weigh?
This also depends on your definition of small. On average, small campers such as a teardrop, or smaller trailers can weigh anywhere between 600 and 3000 pounds. You can use a truck, a minivan, or a car to tow them, but for slightly larger campers, you may need an SUV or a cargo van.
How Much Does a Scamp Trailer Weigh?
There are 2 Scamp 13-ft travel trailers. The standadr and the deluxe and they're both slightly different weights. That said, they both easily come in under 3000 lbs with the standard being 1200-1500lbs, and the deluxe weighing 1300-1600lbs, depending on your layout.
Jeep Wrangler Towing A Forest River R-Pod (Source)
What is Dry Weight on a Camper?
Before you invest in a travel trailer, it is also important to understand the dry weight and why it needs to be evaluated beforehand. This is the actual weight of your vehicle that only contains the standard equipment. This will not include any cargo, fuel, fluids, or optional equipment, or even passengers.
How Much Does a Pop Up Camper Weigh?
This depends on the type and brand that you invest in. Pop-up campers can weigh as much as 3000 pounds on average. However, many small ones are also available in the market that weighs around 1500 pounds only. Lightweight models are usually more expensive than heavier models.
What Types of Vehicles Can Tow a Travel Trailer Under 3000 Lbs?
Since these trailers are compact and not very heavy, many vehicles can easily tow them. You can use an SUV, a minivan, or a crossover for the purpose. Any small truck will also do the job. This means that to tow a trailer under 3000 pounds, you won’t have to upgrade your towing truck.
How to Determine My Tow Weight in a Travel Trailer?
One of the most important things you need to know before buying a travel trailer is to understand the tow weight. You can look for the automobile's gross vehicle rating. This is usually found on the sticker placed inside the driver's door frame. This number equals the maximum weight that the vehicle can tow. Make sure this weight is compatible with the weight of the travel trailer.
Are Trailers Under 3000 Lbs Considered Lightweight?
Compared to all the other travel trailers that exist in the market, trailers under 3000 pounds are definitely considered lightweight. Most other trailers are as heavy as 12,000 to 15,000 pounds or even more. With these trailers, you don’t necessarily need a large truck to tow them.
Travel Trailers Under 3000 Lbs
Comfort, convenience, and affordability are the three words most commonly associated with travel trailers under 3000 lbs. The best thing about them is that they're more affordable to buy and maintain. You can tow them with pretty much any vehicle, too, so there's no expensive outlay for any truck if you don't already own one.
There are so many reasons why investing in a travel trailer will transform your life. They will open up the great outdoors and give you that base for every trip you decide to go on. And the smaller the trailer, the more places you'll be able to reach
We recommend all of the above trailers, but there are many others, so if you don't see what you're looking for fear not. Just keep in mind that there are some brands to avoid.