When most folks think of an RV, they may imagine big, buslike motorhomes or high-end trailers. However, there’s much more to the RV world, especially if you think small. If you’d prefer small, lightweight campers that can go almost anywhere, you’re in luck. Read more about this growing industry and its creative 1000 pound camper models. Let’s get started!
What Are Small Campers?
A small camper is generally any trailer or RV with a fully-loaded total weight under 5,000 pounds. However, you can find many camper models at 1000 pounds or less.
You can tow these campers behind a truck, SUV, or car as long as you don’t exceed the vehicle’s GVWR and towing capacity. Small campers are typically approximately 20 feet long or less. While they may not contain all the features of lengthier models, they usually have everything travelers need for occasional trips.
Why Do People Want Small Campers?
Smaller campers are growing in popularity for several reasons. As RVing has grown in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, new RVers may not want to invest in an expensive new truck or SUV to tow their rig.
Especially when gas prices are high, driving a heavy-duty truck with a full-size camper can be significantly more costly. More compact vehicles can also tow small campers, including ones you may already own. They sell for less, providing an affordable option for entry-level RVers.
Finally, many folks enjoy small campers because they can go where many big rigs can’t. This benefits those who want to travel on roads or national parks with length restrictions.
How Big Is a 1000 Pound Camper?
A 1000-pound camper is pretty tiny for a trailer. These RVs are rarely over 12 feet long and sometimes as diminutive as eight feet. Some may not have a stand-up ceiling height, requiring you to stoop slightly or crawl to access it.
Styles can vary from hard-side trailers to pop-up campers that may feel more like a tent than an RV. Overall, you should expect a 1000-pound camper to be relatively compact. Small campers are more for weekend getaways than homes for full-timers.
Pro Tip: We uncovered how to best find out What Is Your RV Height, and Why You Need to Know It.
6 Small Campers Under 1000 Pounds Practically Anything Can Tow
If you want to give the ultralight trailer life a go, you have many options. Check out these excellent choices that offer various features and price points.
1. 408 Buzz
About: This ultra-lightweight teardrop-style camper has the aesthetics of a high-end model without the price or bulkiness. Two adults can comfortably sleep in the trailer, with features like 12V outlets, storage cubbies, and convenient flip-downs shelves.
Specs: Dry Weight 670 lbs, 11 feet, 6.25 inches long, height 5 feet, 5 inches, cabin height 3 feet, 8.5 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Steel exterior construction, optional side mount for additional work, and cooking space.
MSRP: Starting at $13,000
2. Prolite Trailer “Suite”
About: Even the most compact cars can tow this practical featherweight rig! Inside, two campers can sleep on the relatively spacious 76 by 52-inch sofa bed. Add outdoor storage, a stylish interior, and exterior design for another top-tier small trailer.
Specs: Dry Weight 590 lbs, 12 feet 2 inches long, overall height 6 feet 4 inches, cabin height 4 feet 8 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Dual-use shelf and table, fan, and 120V exterior outlet.
MSRP: Starting around $12,500 (price starting from $16,000 Canadian dollars)
3. Weekender Camper
About: For Australian campers, This striking camper is available in several vibrant and eye-catching colors in addition to the standard white. Unique exterior panels are dent-resistant, easy to clean and provide excellent insulation. Owners can also upgrade to the “Adventurer” feature pack, which includes power and water systems and a kitchen. However, it tips the scales at over 1,000 lbs.
Specs: Dry weight 914-1,377 lbs, 8 feet 9 inches long, cabin height 4 feet 2 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Premium “Adventurer” upgrade set, multiple reading lights, and power ports.
MSRP: Starting around $10,500 (campers starting from $14,990 AUD)
4. Lil El
About: This roomy rig sleeps four with a fold-down bunk. It’s an excellent choice for RVers who’d like to stand up inside their small campers, thanks to its relatively high ceiling. A kitchenette makes cooking on the road convenient, and you can even include a bathroom.
Specs: Dry weight 750 lbs, 8 feet 6 inches long, overall height 8 feet 1 inch, cabin height 6 feet 4 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Kitchenette, optional bathroom, optional entertainment system with radio, TV, DVD player, and cable hookup with an antenna.
MSRP: $11,800
Pro Tip: Want to join #VanLife instead? Check out these 12 Best Small Camper Vans for Living the Van Life.
5. SylvanSport Go
About: This innovative rig offers a design, unlike any other sub 1,000 pound camper. When traveling, the trailer can fold to an ultra-compact size or serve as a convenient storage unit for bikes, water sports equipment, or numerous other pieces of gear.
At the campsite, you can quickly set up a tent on the expanded camper for sleeping and relaxing. While it may not offer the hard-side climate protection of other models, it makes up for it with versatility.
Specs: Dry weight 840lbs, 11 feet 8 inches long, overall height 4 feet 4 inches (compact) to 8 feet 8 inches (camper), cabin height 6 feet 5 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Foldable compact design, gear storage options, and spacious tent sleeping space.
MSRP: $11,995
6. Polydrop P17
About: The Polydrop isn’t only visually striking; it’s also innovative in its design and features. With a unique polygonal shape, aluminum finish, and gull-wing doors, you’ll have a small camper unlike any other. It’s also highly functional, with an outdoor kitchen, battery with an inverter, and convenient, stylish storage.
Specs: Dry weight 820-1,100 lbs, 13 feet 7 inches long, overall height 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 3 inches, cabin height 3 feet 2 inches.
Stand-Out Features: Mobile kitchen, high-end R-41 insulation, gull-wing doors, and optional skylight.
MSRP: Starting at $16,990
Pro Tip: Wondering if all small campers can be towed with a car? Find out Can a Prius Pull a Camper?
You Can Have Big Adventures in Small Campers
You don’t need a massive Class A motorhome or fifth wheel to take advantage of the joys of RV life. For some, a compact 1000-pound camper is all they’ll need to take the comforts of home on the road. Keep these options in mind, and you can’t go wrong on your lightweight, small camper journey.
Which small camper has caught your eye? Tell us in the comments!
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