Travel trailers under 8000 lbs are perfect for anyone getting into RVing. They're big enough for families and groups of friends, and you can also tow them quite comfortably with a half ton truck.
But of course, there are many different designs and brands on the market, so getting it right isn't easy. There's lots to consider, so that's where we come in.
We have put our RV expertise together and brought you some of the best travel trailers under 8000 lbs. As well as reviewing individual models, we've also included a buyer's guide with general information of what you should look for in any travel trailer.
We've also included an FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailers of this size, so you'll be well equipped with all the necessary info by the end of the article.
Things to Consider when Shopping for a Travel Trailer Under 8000 Lbs
When you're shopping for a travel trailer there are certain things to consider. If you're looking for one that's around 8000 lbs, it's likely that you have a family, and need the space. Other than space there will be a few things you should take into consideration.
Towing Capacity
Before you get a travel trailer you should know the towing capacity of your vehicle. If you're wanting a travel trailer under 8000 lbs, you should be fine with any midsize truck or SUV. That said, always consider the dry weight (GVWR) of the trailer, but also think about when it's full, because your towing vehicle will be taking it all on board.
Palomino Puma 25RKQB
Budget
Your budget should be something you consider no matter the size trailer you get. Sure, trailers around 8000 lbs are generally more expensive than smaller trailers, but you don't have to get all the extra add ons. Most brands will do a standard package with optional extras. Of course, many of the extras will improve your camper, but if it exceeds your budget, it's best not to go for it.
Layout and Floorplan
There are more layouts of travel trailers and as they get bigger, you get more complex floorplans. If you have a family, you might want a bunkhouse, or another layout that suits your family.
Most travel trailers under 8000 lbs generally have a master bedroom with a large bed, but you may want an ensuite toilet, and a second bathroom as well.
Is cooking important? You can get a trailer with an island kitchen, and some with plenty of kitchen workspace and amenities so you can do your trick in the kitchen.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is key in any camper, especially if you have a family. Most travel trailer brands have gotten very unique and clever with their storage solutions, so make sure you look for one that will allow you to take as much stuff with you whenever you get away.
Review of the Best Travel Trailers Under 8000 Lbs
Now it's time to take a look at our best travel trailers under 8000 lbs. We have a mix of different models, from luxury to budget, and we haven't just picked the most expensive and luxurious as our best pick, even though they all have a good shout at being the best overall.
Best Travel Trailer Under 8000 Lbs Overall:
Palomino Puma 25RKQB
What we love
Quick Specs
- Sleeps: 4-6
- Number of Floorplans: 1
- Number of Slide-Outs: 1
- Length: 29 feet 5 inches
- Width: 96 inches
- Weight: 6048 pounds
Our Review
This Palomino Puma travel trailer can be your best bid if you want something affordable yet high in quality. It has everything that a travel trailer should have in order to help you feel comfortable while out on your roadtrips.
The 60 x 80 inches queen-sized bed is a major attraction. As it is slightly larger than the usual beds in recreational vehicles, it offers plenty of comfort. The gross vehicle weight is 7,598 pounds, which stays under the limit of 8,000 lbs. And it also helps you in saving up on your fuel expenditure.
Moreover, there is a spacious kitchen with a practical cooking space. It also has a pantry and a refrigerator, which helps in keeping things fresh. A dinette accompanies the kitchen in a slide-out space at the side of the trailer.
There is a sofa set as well, which converts into a bed as does the dinette, allowing you to get up to 6 people. The bathroom is very spacious, with a walk in shower. And there's plenty of storage throughout the trailer.
Runner-up:
Airstream Flying Cloud
What we love
Quick Specs
- Sleeps: 1
- Number of Floorplans: 8
- Number of Slide-Outs: -
- Length: 23-30 ft
- Width: 8 ft
- Weight: 6000 pounds
Our Review
The Airstream Flying Cloud is as good as you might expect from any Aistream camper. There are 13 floorplans, of differing lengths and layouts, but generally they sleep between 4 and 8 people.
All layouts have a master bedroom with either a large bed or 2 twin beds with memory foam mattresses. If you go for the twin bed floorplan, the center aisle is completely opened up, which creates more physical moving space throughout the interior.
Airstream has been pioneering innovative RV technology like refrigerators, toilets, screens doors, and showers in travel trailers and you can see in the Flying Cloud, and any other Airstream, the quality of the amenities.
I haven't even mentioned the Flying Cloud’s interior is, yet. With light wood walls, cabinetry, and trim, all designed to complete Airstream's dome shape.
The dinette converts into a bed, as does the ultraleather sofa. And the shower is separate from the rest of the bathroom, so there'll be no arguing over who wants to use what first.
The Airstream Flying Cloud also boasts a quiet and efficient heating and cooling system, which will keep you and your guests comfortable, no matter the season.
AIrstream really need no introduction and it's for good reason. They're not cheap, but the design, luxurious amenities, and quality construction is second to none.
Best for the Money:
Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite
What we love
Quick Specs
- Sleeps: 4
- Number of Floorplans: 12
- Number of Slide-Outs: 1
- Length: 26 feet 2 inches
- Width: 96 inches
- Weight: 7000 pounds
Our Review
There are a total of 12 distinct Apex floor plans, there's plenty of options with the Coachmen Apex Ultra Light. The 211RBS is one of the bigger Apex Ultra Lights, but at 7000 pounds, it's a travel trailer that easily makes the weight limit for our review.
The thing about the Coachmen Light series is that they come with class and offer all the luxuries you'd need, but at an affordable rate, so we have included this as the best travel trailer under 8000 lbs for the money.
The master bedroom is at the front of the trailer and it boasts a large queen sized bed with very useful storage underneath it. Walk out of the bedroom and you're immediately in the main entertainment living area, which boasts a breakfast bar with stools.
Opposite there is the slideout, which houses a dinette and double bed at night. Beind the breakfast bar is the kitchen, which boasts all the amenities you need. The kitchen cupboard are all made with ash colored poplar, which is high quality timber and it looks really nice.
The bathroom as at the far back of the trailer, and there's plenty of storage and wardrobe space throughout. All in all, this makes the Apex Ultra perfect for families and groups of friends.
Grand Design Imagine 2600RB
What we love
Quick Specs
- Sleeps: 6
- Number of Floorplans: 8
- Number of Slide-Outs: 1
- Length: 29 ft
- Height: 11 ft 2 inch
- Weight: 7850 lbs
Our Review
The Grand Design Imagine 2600RB is an absolute must for anyone who wants a luxury travel trailer. With 8 different floorplans, most of them are over our weight limit, but at 7850 pounds the 2600RB is a quality travel trailer under 8000 lbs.
It boasts premium construction and interior finish, giving you the luxuries of home while you're out on the road. The layout boast a queen sized bed in the master bedroom, with plenty of storage and nice sized windows either side of the bed, so you get to wake up and feel the nature immediately.
The kitchen is next to the bedroom and boasts large countertops, microwave, 3 burner stove, oven, double door refrigerator, and plenty of cupboard space, and a large pantry to keep all the accessories at bay.
Oppossite the kitchen, there's a dinette, and sleeper sofa, where the slideout is, ensuring you have plenty of space while spending time in your RV.
The bathroom is so spacious it's unreal. Boasting everything you need, including a walk in 30x36 shower, with a skylight, and there's also a window on the back wall, which helps with airing the RV.
Outdoors, there's an impressive 21' awning, coax TV hook up, and a spray port, which is perfect for cleaning the hiking boots after a long trail.
LANCE 2185 TRAVEL TRAILER
What we love
Quick Specs
- Sleeps: 6
- Number of Floorplans: 1
- Number of Slide-Outs: 1
- Length: 26 ft 1 in
- Width: 96 inches
- Weight: 7900 pounds
Our Review
The last of our Travel Trailers under 8000 lbs comes from Lance. Coming in at 7900 pounds the trailer boasts everything you need and sleeps up to 6 people.
The master bedroom has a queen sized bed with wardrobes and storage. Walking out of the bedroom you enter the living area, where the slideout is, which houses the u-shaped dinette. This converts into a bed and sleeps an extra 2 people.
Opposite the slideout is the kitchen area. It's a bit small compared with the others, but the Lance is cheaper, and although the kitchen prep space is limited, it should be fine for most people.
Towards the back is a shower and toilet, which is pretty compact, and a separate wash basin opposite. Tucked in at the back is the bunkhouse, with 2 bunk beds. There's another wardrobe right at the side of the bunkhouse.
Outside, you have an awning, propane connection and a wash station, so the days muck can be washed off before entering the trailer after a long hike.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Buying
Buying a new travel trailer can make you nervous, especially if you are doing so for the first time. People want to make sure that their investment is safe, and they will get the true worth of their money.
We understand this, so we have enlisted some cautious considerations to keep in mind before buying a travel trailer.
Slide-Out Space
Well, the presence of a slide-out space is welcomed by everyone as it ensures more space in the interior. But, since it is on the outside, it should be able to deal with all the weight that you put on it. So, go for the travel trailers that have a well-tested slide-out space.
Interior Height
The interior height is quite important because it determines the ease of movement inside the trailer. The ceiling should be high enough for you to walk around easily without ducking your head.
Price
Now, the price is definitely a major aspect to consider while making a purchase. You need to choose a travel trailer that has the lowest price with the highest quality. A comparison of available options will help you make the right decision in this regard.
FAQs
Can you really find an affordable and quality travel trailer?
Yes, you can find a quality travel trailer that is very affordable. travel trailers under 8000 lbs are bigger than many, but they aren't the biggest. Yes, you'll get plenty of luxury features with them, and that will cost, but you can definitely find a trailer that's affordable.
What kind of truck can tow an 8000 lbs travel trailer?
Full sized SUVs and half-ton trucks can tow travel trailers that weigh 8000 lbs quite easily.
What is the towing capacity of a 3/4-ton truck?
It depends on the brand, but generally you're looking at around 20,000 lbs. But always check your manufacturer's handbook before trying to tow anything that weight.
Can you increase towing capacity?
No, you can't increase the towing capacity of your vehicle unless you re-engineer the vehicle. This is because trucks are made specially with towing capacity in mind, so don't try and push your towing vehicle as it could be dangerous.
Travel Trailers under 8000 Lbs
Travel trailers under 8000 lbs are mid to large trailers. The size should be enough for most people, and with it being a trailer, personally I wouldn't go much higher than 8000lbs. This is because trailers are difficult to tow and the heavier they are, the harder they get.
All of the above trailers are highly recommended, and depending on your budget and needs, we're sure you'll find at least one there. If not, keep looking as there are many others we haven't reviewed, and of course, it's such a big investment.
We're sure, however, that the travel trailer you go for will be the best decision of your outdoor life and be the base of every future memory you make. Happy camping!