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Explore Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers

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Hard Side & Hard Side High Wall Series

EMBRACING THE PINNACLE OF VERSATILITY. The Rockwood Hard Side Series emerges as a harmonious feeling of a travel trailer's exterior and the effortless towing convenience of a tent camper. Within this remarkable synthesis, every model features both an air conditioner and a furnace, ensuring your inner sanctum remains cozy, regardless of external conditions. The extraordinary speed and simplicity of setup ensures that mere moments after arriving at your chosen campsite, you'll already be immersed in the joys of your camping experience.

2024 Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers Floorplans

Hard side series.

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Hard Side High Wall Series

Specifications Definitions

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum permissible weight, including cargo, fluids, optional equipment and accessories that can be safely supported by a combination of all axles.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)* - is the typical weight of the unit as manufactured at the factory. It includes all weight at the unit’s axle(s) and tongue or pin and LP Gas. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh potable water, additional optional equipment or dealer installed accessories. *Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)** - is the amount of weight available for fresh potable water, cargo, additional optional equipment and accessories. CCC is equal to GVWR minus UVW. Available CCC should accommodate fresh potable water (8.3 lbs per gallon). Before filling the fresh water tank, empty the black and gray tanks to provide for more cargo capacity. **Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

Each Forest River RV is weighed at the manufacturing facility prior to shipping. A label identifying the unloaded vehicle weight of the actual unit and the cargo carrying capacity is applied to every Forest River RV prior to leaving our facilities.

The load capacity of your unit is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading your unit.

May Show Optional Features. Features and Options Subject to Change Without Notice.

2024 Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers Features & Options

* Due to the current environment, our features and options are subject to change due to material availability.

Standard Features

• 12 Volt Water Pump
• Torsion EZ Lube Axles
• 3 Burner Indoor Range w/Cover
• Solar Prep On Frame
• Battery Box & Wiring
• 30 Amp Detachable Power Cord
• 35 Amp Converter
• LED Ceiling Lights
• Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
• Positive Latches & Catches On Doors & Drawers
• Wood Drawers with Full Extension Metal Guides
• Interior Floor Lights
• Durable Diamond Plate Front
• Fiberglass Laminated Roof
• Electric Brakes
• 4 Stabilizer Jacks w/ Sand Pads
• Installed Door Step
• Large Folding Entry Door Grab Handle
• Courtesy Light on Front
• Outside Griddle
• Cable TV Ready
• Double 20# Gas Bottles w/Molded Cover
• Automatic Gas Regulator
• Hanging Wardrobe w/ 2 Shelves
• Takes 2" Ball
• Clay Fiberglass w/ Alloy Band Exterior
• Sedona Wood Interior
• Port-A-Potty (A213HW Only)
• Hot Water Pkg w/ Outside Spray Port
• Radial Tires (A122S - 13") (A213HW, A214HW - 14" Tires)

Hard Side Package

• Create-A-Breeze Roof Vent Fan
• Spare Tire w/ Carrier & Cover
• CO Detector
• Stereo w/ Outside Speakers
• 1.7 CU - 12V Refrigerator w/ 100W Roof Solar Panel
• 11K BTU Under Bunk AC
• Water Filter Supplied
• Power Front Jack
• 40 Amp Portable Solar Panel

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9 Best Pop Up Campers & Tent Trailers (Video Tours + Reviews)

(Updated 8/21)

Before we get into the list of the best pop up campers…let me tell you a quick story. It’s about a tent and an RV that were madly in love.

Their families tried to stop them from seeing each other but eventually, they ran away together to a campground far, far away. Years later they returned and were hoping their families would be more accepting, especially since now it wasn’t just the two of them. 

Now they had a little pop-up camper child, the result of the perfect union between Mrs. Tent and Mr. RV. And so the humble pop-up camper came into existence, to bring peace and harmony to the great divide between the RVs and the Tents. 😲🤣

Now, decades later, the pop-up camper or tent trailer is still one of the most popular family camping options. You get some of the comforts and security of an RV while still being affordable, lightweight, and easy to use. 

If you’re thinking of getting a pop-up, this is the article for you. You get some of the top picks for the best pop up campers and tent trailers as well as a few things to consider before buying. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the video reviews since they really help you visualize the size and features. 

Let’s dive in! 

Table of Contents

What Types of Pop Up Campers Are There Anyway?

Tent trailers have come a long way and even evolved into some hybrid types of pop up campers.

Traditional Tent Trailers

These are the kind most people envision when they hear “pop-up camper”. They look like a flat rectangular box when all put away. Then the top pops up and bed platforms extend out from either end leaving soft tent-like sides.

Hi-Lo Style

This style is kinda like a hard-sided RV that’s been cut in half horizontally. The top half has a hard roof and sides that goes up and down. When put away, it almost looks like a normal pop-up camper. Hi-Lo was a popular brand for years, but they’re not made anymore. Now, a brand called Trail Manor makes something similar.

When folded up, an a-frame pop-up resembles most other tent trailers. However, the roof has two parts that when raised, give the appearance of an a-frame house. These have hard sides but limited headroom. There are some models that do have small tent pullouts to help maximize the space inside.

Hybrid Pop-Ups

Hybrid pop up campers come in all shapes, sizes, and configurations. What they have in common is that some part of it unfolds and/or pops ups. Makes sense right? 🤔 See if you can find the hybrids on my list!

*Psst…if you’re looking for other small and lightweight travel trailers, don’t miss these articles.

• 11 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs (2021) Video Tours, Pics + Floor Plans!
• 11 Best Small RVs With a Shower and Toilet (Pics + Floor Plans)

List of the Best Pop Up Campers (Updated 2021)

Before we dive headfirst into this list, keep in mind that it’s not organized as a list from best to worst, biggest to smallest, or prettiest to ugliest. Each of these trailers has its advantages and disadvantages and it’s up to you to decide which is the best pop up camper for you and your family. 

Ok, now we’re ready to go!

Sylvansport Go Pop Up Camper

A perfect first pop-up camper for couples who want a step up from their tent and extra space for their gear.

Weighing in at just 840 pounds, this mini pop-up camper doubles as a sleeping area, toy hauler, and gear rack. In fact, when it’s folded up, you can barely tell it’s a foldable camper. 

There’s a unique tent pod that, when folded up, can be adjusted up and down as needed depending on what else you want to haul. Keep it down if you want to carry some kayaks or a couple of bikes on the top rack. 

Adjust the tent pod to the top position and you can haul a dirt bike or even a 4-wheeler on the lower gear deck. 

Then when it’s time to camp, just open up the waterproof tent pod and you’ve got sleeping space for up to four people and a generous 6’5” standing height inside. The interior can also be configured with just two bunks on each side and a multi-position table in the middle. 

Check out the video tour here .

Coachman Clipper Express

An excellent hybrid pop-up for camping as a couple.

If you want to start small and don’t need space to haul bikes or kayaks, a Coachman Clipper Express is an excellent choice. About 2/3rds of the roof pops up so you get standing room in part of the trailer.

Currently it comes in 3 different configurations with the smallest havine a bed, sink, bench seat and countertop inside. It’s nice if you have a smaller towing vehicle since this little guy has an UVW of just 1,418 pounds. (But always double-check how much your vehicle can tow. You don’t want a repeat of this scene from The Long, Long Trailer )

The largest configuration comes in at a little over 2,200 pounds, but it has a bed, sofa, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, and a small wardrobe inside.

Check out the video tour here.

Coachmen Clipper 128LS

One of the smallest pop ups with a bathroom

This simple pop-up camper is a greater starter choice for families looking to upgrade from a tent. Its simple design adds an extra layer of security and comfort you won’t get with a tent, and with a UVW of 2,204 pounds, it’s still light enough to pull even if you don’t have a big truck.

On the inside, it’s got several storage cabinets, a kitchenette, and a dinette for when you want to eat inside away from the mosquitos. Plus, it’s available with an optional bathroom package so you don’t have to run to the bathhouse when nature calls at 2am. 

There aren’t a lot of great video tours for this one. Here’s a short one , but I’ll be sure to post a better one once it’s available.

2020 Forest River Flagstaff 228D

A little extra space for you and the kids. 

A family camping trip can go downhill real fast when you’ve got a day full of rain and the entire family is crammed in a tiny camper. Fortunately, this pop-up camper gives everyone a little extra space. 

The box is 12-feet long and in addition to the pullouts on either end, it also has a side dinette pullout that gives you a lot more space to move around inside. 

This model also is available with an optional shower and toilet cassette if you’d prefer not to have to run to the bathhouse for late-night emergencies.

Here’s the video tour .

Coachmen Viking V3

The best pop up camper for families with a lot of toys.

Trying to tow your pop up camper in addition to a bunch of bikes, tarps, skateboards, footballs, and random pool noodles can be challenging. If that sounds like you, you’ll love this Coachmen Viking V3. 

It’s got a front cargo area where you can haul anything from a few mountain bikes to a few dirt bikes. But don’t worry, that extra cargo space doesn’t mean you’ve got less space inside. 

Inside the 12-foot long box, you’ve got a queen and king size beds, a kitchenette, a slide-out dinette, and a toilet.

Here’s the comprehensive video tour.

Forest River Rockwood HW296

Not your Grandma’s pop-up camper.

If you want to get more amenities than some traditional RV travel trailers while having the lightweight and easy storage of pop-ups, this is the camper for you. 

The HW in its name stands for “high-wall”, meaning the side walls are a little taller than traditional pop-ups. You might not even notice this in pictures, but it really makes a big difference. 

Just that little bit of extra height on the sidewalls and the longer 16-foot box length mean you get a pop up with a microwave, fridge, oven, double sink, hard wall toilet/shower, and more.

Here’s the detailed video tour .

Let’s have a look at three more unique pop-up campers that you should also keep your eye on.

The best pop-up for going off the beaten path.

Most pop-up campers can’t handle much more than the occasional pothole. This Opus off-road pop-up camper laughs in the face of potholes and dirt roads. It’s made to go…well, anywhere your vehicle can go. 

If you’ve got a serious off-roading vehicle that can scale rocky slopes and trudge through deep sand, this Opus camper is happy to follow along. 

It’s built like a tank and has a unique inflatable tent structure that sets itself up in about a minute and a half. Plus it’s got gear racks for hauling bikes, toys, and extra supplies for when you’re camping off the grid

Here’s the complete video review.

Big space you can pull with small vehicles.

This is definitely not your traditional pop-up camper. Once it’s fully folded up, it’s almost hard to tell what it is you’re pulling. But once set-up, you’ve got a 12’x8’ cabin with over seven feet of headroom. 

It comes with different options that include bedding, heaters, a sink, and stove. And best of all, it weighs just under 1,500 pounds so almost any vehicle can tow it.

Check out the video review here.

Trail Manor Campers

Lightweight, easy to set up, and filled with nice features.

If you don’t like the soft sides of normal tent trailers but still want something that’s easy to pull, the Trail Manor could be the one for you. Even the largest model weights just over 3100 pounds. There are two top sections that fold up and out to give you the full standing height and some extra length.

Plus, you get something very few pop up campers have, a hardwall bathroom that’s not a wet bath. That’s right, it’s got an actual shower and tub, toilet and sink!

Watch the video tour here.

So there you go! You’ve got some of the top picks for the best pop up and tent trailers for your family.

If you’re new to the world of pop-up campers, tent trailers, and RVs, you’ve probably still got a few questions bouncing around your head right about now. 

Maybe you’re wondering…

Pop Up Camper FAQs

What are all these acronyms… ccc, uvw, gvwr .

Hint, they’re not TV stations. 

GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

UVW = Unloaded Vehicle Weight

CCC = Cargo Carrying Capacity

The GVWR is the total allowable weight of everything. I mean everything… the pop-up camper itself, full water tanks, beach toys, flip flops, and snacks you have hidden in the secret compartments. Combine all of this to get to the maximum allowable weight of everything together.

This is important to keep in mind both when packing as well as when deciding if your vehicle can pull your camper. 

Imagine your vehicle can tow a maximum of 2,000 pounds. So you buy a pop-up camper with a UVW (unloaded vehicle weight) of 2,000 pounds. But then you add 20 gallons of water, a full propane tank, a cooler full of Pepsi and cheese, and few pieces of firewood for good measure. 

That extra weight will put more stress on your towing vehicle than it needs. So make sure to consider the GVWR, how much stuff you plan to pack, and your vehicle’s towing capacity when looking at campers.

The UVW is the weight of the camper when it leaves the factory, without water, propane, or other cargo.  

And to get the CCC , it’s easy. Just take the GVWR and subtract the UVW. Don’t worry if you’re tired of math, most companies give you these figures on the product page. 

Take for example the specifications for the 2020 Forest River Flagstaff 228D . The UVW is 2,439 pounds and on top of that, you’ve got a whopping 824 pounds of cargo capacity!  

What if I want to buy a used pop-up camper? 

Just like when buying anything used, it’s important to give it a good once over to make sure it’s been well-maintained. Here are some things to look for.

Check for water damage. If the previous owners closed up the camper after a rainy weekend of camping and never reopened it to air it out, it’s likely that the canvas may have started to mold and deteriorate. 

Look for water marks on its interiors as well as damage to the floors or cabinets. Most pop-up campers have laminate cabinets that don’t hold up well when they get wet. 

And just use your nose. Does it smell musty and moldy inside? Then there’s a good chance it may have some moisture problems. 

Check the hard exterior. Pay special attention to the seams where different pieces come together. Are they still sealed or does it look like water could get in? Do you notice any rust spots or visible damage to the hard exteriors? Is the chassis in good shape?

Completely set it up and take it down. The setup and takedown process is a good way to help identify problems. Check things like:

• Do the ends slide out properly. 
• Does the lift system work smoothly? 
• Are the levelers in good condition? 
• Does the door close and open properly? 
• Does the plumbing system work properly, including the fresh, grey, and black water tanks (if it has a flush toilet)?
• Do the dinette and other interior pieces unfold properly?

Can I rent a pop up camper before I buy one?

Yes you can! You may not be able to rent the exact model you’re looking at buying, but it’s a smart idea to try a tent trailer if you’ve never used one before. It’ll help you decide if you’d rather go for a regular hard-sided RV.

Check out RVshare to see what pop up campers are available to rent in your area.

Do those tiny bathrooms really work? 

So you’re looking at a larger pop-up with a small bathroom and you’re probably thinking, am I really going to be able to, well… take care of business?

Many have what’s called a cassette toilet. Newer ones have a CD or mp3 toilet. (Just kidding, I couldn’t help but put that cheesy joke in there.) A cassette toilet has a lid that folds over it so you can use that area as a shelf if you need some extra storage or just don’t plan to use the camper’s bathroom during a trip. 

But when it’s time to take care of business, I’ll be honest, they don’t give you a lot of privacy. Most have a curtain that goes around the tiny toilet area. 

Some larger pop-ups have a combination shower and toilet cassette. These are nice since the toilet area is a bit larger, so even with the curtain closed you don’t feel quite so claustrophobic. 

So, to answer the question… Do those tiny pop-up camper bathrooms really work? Yes, they do, but they’re not the most comfortable. If your campground has a nice bathhouse that’s close to your site, you’ll probably end up heading over there to take care of business. 

Can my vehicle tow a pop up camper?

One of the big advantages of a pop-up camper is that more vehicles can tow them thanks to their lightweight. But don’t think the V6 under the hood automatically means you can pull a pop-up camper. 

There are other things that manufacturers take into account when rating a vehicle’s towing capacity other than just the size of the engine – suspension, type of hitch mount, etc.

Here are some good guides that’ll help you figure out how big of a pop-up camper you can afford to get.

Towing Capacity Guide  

Guide to Towing Capacity for SUVs and Trucks

A Few More Things You Should Know Before Buying Your First Pop-Up Camper

It can get hot in the summer. If you forget to make a site reservation and end up with a site in the full summer sun, it’ll get hot inside. Although they have mesh sides, the heavy fabric can still trap a lot of heat, so don’t think that the whole family can just relax inside the camper on a 90-degree day. 

But some do come with A/C! If you’re going to be doing a lot of camping in hot, muggy weather, then look for one with an air conditioner. Because of the fabric sides which don’t provide a lot of insulation, you won’t be able to get it like an icebox inside but it’ll definitely take the edge off.

You’ll still feel like you’re sleeping in a tent. Yup, you’re gonna hear the crickets as you’re falling asleep. This is something people will either love or hate. It’s great if you want some extra conveniences but still want to feel like you’re in the outdoors. It’s not so great if you have some noisy campground neighbors who aren’t respecting “quiet time”.

When it rains, you need to air it out. If it rained during your camping trip and you had to pack up the camper while the awnings were still wet, don’t forget to open it up when you get home to make sure it fully dries. Sure, it’s an inconvenience, but it’ll prevent mold and mildew which could lead to more costly repairs in the future. 

Extreme wind can be an issue. While this depends largely on where you plan to camp, keep in mind that places such as Utah and Wyoming are notorious for their wind. This can snap the “pop up” portion – I actually saw this happen in real life with my cousin while camping near Goblin Valley, Utah. They had to spend the night in our camper!

Some National Parks require hard sides to camp in . This is mainly in bear country (such as Yellowstone National Park) but it’s something to consider if you live around the area and hope to camp there.

So Which of The Best Pop-Up Campers Will You Get?

So, will the best pop up camper for you be the cute but capable Sylvansport Go or the luxurious and comfortable Forest River Rockwood HW296? Or maybe you’re on a budget and will look for a used pop-up camper in good condition?

Whichever you choose, I’m sure you and your family will love the extra comfort and convenience that pop-up campers provide. 

To make the most out of your next RV camping trip, don’t forget to check out some of my other RV camping articles , like…

• 5 WAYS TO CLEAN YOUR RV AWNING (+DIY AWNING CLEANER!)
• 17 USEFUL RV CAMPING STOCKING STUFFERS $10 AND UNDER!
• 11 BEST SMALL RVS WITH A SHOWER AND TOILET (PICS + FLOOR PLANS)

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2 thoughts on “9 Best Pop Up Campers & Tent Trailers (Video Tours + Reviews)”

Wow, so many ads! I appreciate the info but it’s so distracting to actually read what you are writing because of all the ads and pop-ups.

Hi Aster! Thanks for the kind words! I don’t love ads either, but because of the ads I am able to support my 3 kiddos while staying at home! =D – Stacy

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HI! I'm Stacy, AKA “The Crazy Outdoor Mama”

I'm the voice behind the website, and I hope you've found what you needed! I'm an outdoorsy married mother of three from Wyoming, and I LOVE creating resources that make camping and other outdoor activities easier!

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8 Best Pop Up Campers: Top Buying Guide

• Length: 10’
• UVW: 1,230 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood R19OTG is as close to tent camping as you can get in an RV. New in 2024, Rockwood’s two “Off The Ground” pop ups bring it back to the basics. Small, lightweight, and easy to set up, the Rockwood R19OTG is about as simple as you can get. 

It cozily sleeps three and offers unique lookouts through the walls. While it doesn’t offer a bathroom, it does offer some features like a roof-mounted electric fan, USB ports, counterspace, and storage. For those looking to make the smallest upgrade from tent camping, look no further than the Off The Ground series. 

The second Off The Ground pop up, the R16OTG is a smaller unit when collapsed but offers more sleeping space when expanded. 

Forest River Rockwood Freedom 1940LTD

• Length: 13’9”
• UVW: 1,685 pounds
• Sleeps:  

Forest River’s Rockwood Freedom 1940LTD is a compact pop up camper that’s easy to tow thanks to its length of just under 14 feet and dry weight of 1,685 pounds. This model sleeps up to five with two beds and a folding dinette. A carry-out range makes cooking outside the unit easy and practical. But head inside to complete your prep and access a much more robust kitchen area.

While not drastically heavier, the 1940LTD marks a difference between the “Off The Ground” units because it includes running water, power, and propane. You get more amenities but also more weight and cost—that’s part of the tradeoff. The 1940LTD has a mini-fridge, sink, 20K BTU furnace, and 20-pound propane tank, so you’re ready to enjoy the finer comforts of camping.

Coachmen Clipper Sport 108ST

• Length: 16’10”

Slightly larger and able to sleep more, the Coachmen Clipper Sport 108ST includes a similar but more expansive layout than the Rockwood Freedom. Side tent extensions allow it to sleep another camper and provide more interior comforts.

The 108ST includes modern conveniences like a sink with running water, a two-burner propane stovetop, a 12V refrigerator, a cassette toilet, a furnace, and even an outdoor shower. While only about 600 pounds heavier, the Clipper Sport offers far more comforts and space, though your price increases, too. 

pop up campers are a favorite among off-grid and off-road RVers, and the Clipper Sport 108ST includes some baseline exterior features like radial tires, electric brakes, diamond-plated front and rear walls, and a tubular steel frame. An off-road package includes 15” tires and a lifted axle. 

Forest River Rockwood 1910ESP

• Length: 16’9”
• UVW: 2,341 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood 1910ESP is a fold-down pop up camper that sleeps up to five people. This “Extreme Sports Package” pop up provides basic amenities to make your camping experience easy and relaxing, with a touch of adventure. You get a three-burner stove, sink, portable toilet, and a refrigerator. Plus, you get an outdoor griddle for cooking outside. 

The 1910ESP gains about four feet in length when extended. Ample seating at the 40” by 74” dinette means there’s plenty of space at the breakfast table. There’s even an A/C wiring kit to keep you comfortable if you’re camping in the heat of summer. The Extreme Package comes with 15” tires and a 200W solar panel with an inverter. Note, with the added powered appliances, stove, and running water, the Rockwood 1910ESP significantly goes up in weight compared to its counterparts. It’s still very towable for many SUVs and trucks. 

Forest River Rockwood 2280BHESP

• Length: 18’7”
• UVW: 2,578 pounds

Another Extreme Sports Package model from Forest River, the Rockwood 2280BHESP sleeps up to five and provides a unique storage option with a 28-inch by 84-inch metal decking that is great for bikes, firewood, inflatable boats, and all sorts of other toys. Inside, you get plenty of interior dining and sleeping space with large slide-outs, a dinette, and a gaucho-style couch. Cook a meal inside the camper on its three-burner stove or outside on the griddle. 

The 2280BHESP offers ample room inside for cooking, eating, and sleeping, as well as a cassette toilet and shower. 

Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC

• Length: 21’3”
• UVW: 3,562 pounds

Another excellent Forest River model, the Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC offers plenty of sleeping space for seven people and features a slide-out that provides a place for the whole family to eat. Speaking of eating, preparing dinner for your family and guests is easy, thanks to a gas oven and three-burner stove. There’s even a double sink to make doing dishes easier. And if that weren’t enough, this model even includes a toilet and wanded shower.

For sleeping arrangements, enjoy heated mattresses for those cold nights when the extra warmth matters. 

The Flagstaff HW29SC provides four bays of exterior storage to help keep your campsite organized and clutter-free. Cook on the exterior griddle and enjoy the shade of this unit’s 13’ awning for maximum outdoor entertainment. 

Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST

• Length: 18’4”
• UVW: 2,120 pounds

Let’s explore a hybrid pop up camper, the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST . This pop up incorporates the security of a travel trailer’s exterior with the space-saving convenience of a tent camper. In a few steps this flat, compact trailer turns into a hard-sided A-frame camper that comfortably sleeps three. 

The T12RBST is Flagstaff’s smallest hard-side pop up, but don’t underestimate its capabilities. Its weight and size make it easy to tow, and inside, you’ve got an upgraded three-burner stove, a 45-inch by 80-inch dinette, and a refrigerator. Keep your things stowed in the easy-to-reach storage trunk and head outside to cook on the griddle when you need a break. 

The amenities improve, too. Enjoy a microwave, cable TV hookups, and wood drawers with full-extension metal guides. This is a fantastic first RV for anyone looking to get their toes wet without too much investment. 

Aliner Scout

• Length: 15’

The 2024 Aliner Scout is a hard-side a-frame pop up camper with optional dormers that create additional window space. It’s quite towable at only 1400 pounds and can be stored in your garage, setting up and folding down easily, in as little as thirty seconds, according to Aliner. 

Inside the Scout, you’ll find plenty of storage and electrical outlets to bring along any appliances you may want. While the Scout doesn’t include a stovetop or refrigerator, the extra storage and outlets mean you can decide how many conveniences you want to include. The Scout has the option of including an electric A/C unit. 

This is a fairly affordable and very towable unit great for someone looking to downsize or looking for their first RV.

What Is a Pop Up Camper?

Pop up campers are collapsible, lightweight RV types that, when folded down, are secure and compact for travel. At the campsite, they usually feature expandable sides and a roof that “pops up.” This provides plenty of living space while camping but keeps things compact when you’re not. Pop up campers usually include basic amenities such as beds, a small refrigerator, a stovetop, a dining table, and storage compartments.

Pop up campers usually sleep between two and six people and can weigh as little as 280 pounds. Depending on the size, however, they can weigh as much as 3,700 pounds.

Do You Want a Pop Up Camper with a Bathroom?

Believe it or not, some pop up campers provide bathrooms. Plenty of options do have them, including some of the options on our list.

Types of Pop Up Camper Bathrooms

Pop up campers with bathrooms usually provide two options, either portable or permanent.

• Portable bathrooms: These fixtures usually include a chemical toilet or portable RV toilet.
• Permanent bathrooms: If a pop up camper has a permanent bathroom, it’s typically a “wet bath” that features a combination of a shower and a standard flush toilet. Wet bath fixtures are enclosed spaces where all elements are contained within a single, water-tight compartment. They usually don’t have hard walls. Instead, a shower curtain offers privacy and helps keep water from splashing everywhere.

Types of Pop Up Campers

Pop up campers come in several sizes and feature different amenities depending on their size and shape. Most pop up RVs can sleep anywhere from two to six, although things might feel a little cramped as you add more people.

Tent Trailers

Pop up tent trailers are usually compact, lightweight trailers. They feature canvas or vinyl sides and roofs. These collapsible walls allow for easy storage, and they’re some of the most popular options due to their portability and price.

High Wall Campers

High-wall campers feature tall sides that extend up to around five feet. The walls are usually constructed from vinyl or canvas. High-wall campers tend to offer more space than tent trailers. They’re also great at providing extra comfort because they can block wind, rain, and noise.

An A-frame pop up camper gets its name from the distinctive roofline that forms when the camper is fully open. They provide more interior space than tent trailers and other camping options. Their triangular shape can even provide wind resistance when camping in areas with strong winds.

Pros and Cons of Pop Up Campers

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of pop up campers.

Pros of Buying a Pop Up Camper

• Affordability: Pop up campers are less expensive than other types of RVs, making them an accessible option for families and budget-conscious travelers.
• Lightweight and towable: Pop up campers are often very lightweight and can be towed by mid-size vehicles, making them easy to transport to campsites. Not sure if your vehicle can haul a camper? Use our tow guide and consult your owner’s manual.
• Space-saving: Pop up campers fold down into a compact size for easy storage when not in use.
• Enhanced camping experience: Pop up campers can improve the camping experience by providing a comfortable bed, protection from the elements, and a convenient setup and tear-down process.
• Fuel efficiency: Pop up campers typically weigh less and are smaller than other RVs, which can lead to better fuel efficiency.

Cons of Buying a Pop Up Camper

• Limited space: These campers are often smaller than other types of RVs and may not provide as much living space or storage for longer trips.
• Less durability: pop up campers are generally built with lightweight materials, which may not hold up well over time in extreme weather or heavy use.
• Limited amenities: Campers typically have fewer amenities than other RVs, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or entertainment systems.
• Maintenance: Pop up campers require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. This includes cleaning, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper function of the electrical and plumbing systems.

Who Are Pop Up Campers Best For?

These small campers are best for those who want a lightweight camping option that doesn’t require towing a large trailer. They’re also great for families who want extra space and amenities but who don’t need the full size of a travel trailer or fifth wheel camper. If you take weekend excursions or occasional week-long camping trips to a single campsite for an extended period, pop- up campers might be one of the best RV types for you.

Compare Pop Up Campers for Sale

Pop up campers provide an excellent entry point for people who want to go a step beyond tent camping but aren’t ready or willing to invest tens of thousands of dollars in a large RV. They’re a more compact experience, but many of the best models don’t sacrifice quality. In addition to affordability, a good pop up camper often does not require investing in a heavy-duty SUV or truck to transport it. You can tow with smaller vehicles like mid-size SUVs.

If you’ve never seen a pop up camper up close and are considering a purchase, visit your nearest Camping World location today. We can answer your questions about all aspects of RV and camper ownership, including convenient RV financing .

You can also explore Camping World’s selection of pop up campers online .

Pop Up Camper FAQs

To round out your knowledge, here are some of the common questions about this type of RV:

How long does it take to set up a pop up camper?

Most pop up campers are fairly simple to set up, but it’s recommended that you practice at home to familiarize yourself with the process before taking it to the campsite. Setting up can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your familiarity with the process and the type of pop up. For more detailed instructions, be sure to check out our guide on how to set up a pop up camper .

Is it worth getting a pop up camper?

If you’re on the fence about buying an RV or don’t have the towing capacity for a travel trailer, a pop up camper might be a great option. These compact models have the added benefit of being towable by some cars and mid-size SUVs. If you’re an occasional camper who doesn’t need much space, pop up campers can be an excellent entry point to RV life.

How much is a pop up camper? 

Pop up campers can range in price from $6,199 all the way up to $25,000. What you pay for a pop up camper largely depends on its age, features, and condition.

What is the highest-rated pop up camper?

Camping World sells pop up camper models from many leading brands, including Forest River, Jayco, and Starcraft. Many reviewers and industry experts recommend Forest River brand models for their quality and features.  

Do pop up campers have showers and toilets?

Some models of pop up camper do have showers and toilets. Because they’re small, however, these fixtures are often separated from the rest of the camper by a curtain to create a “wet space,” not a full-size room.   

Do pop up campers have AC and heat?

Some pop up camper models do have limited heating and A/C options built-in, or they may have the option to add portable heaters. Research the make and model of your pop up camper before you buy it to ensure it meets your needs.

Can you use a pop up camper in winter? 

While some pop up campers are better suited for cold climates than others, a furnace is an important requirement for any camper for winter or cold camping. Additionally, hard side pop ups are better suited for cold and wet conditions, especially those like Flagstaff and Rockwood that come with Azdel composite panels on their walls.

Camping in below-freezing temperatures is not recommended for pop ups due to the risk of freezing water, though some may be equipped with accessories to prevent this. Check with the manufacturer to learn their recommendations for winter and cold weather camping. 

Do you have any questions about pop up campers? Share them in the comments below.

• Comment (3)

Any tent trailers that have ‘north/south’ sleeping area?

One pro of a pop-up not listed here is that when camping in late July in a campground without electric hookups to run an air conditioner, the top half of the camper can be unzipped for airflow, reducing, or even eliminating the need for that A/C.

Great advice. Suggestion for a new lightweight pop up? I use to have a Coleman back in the 90’s but see they don’t make them now. Best one to get now?

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10 Best Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

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Hard-sided pop-up campers are a great option for new RVers who want to enjoy the great outdoors. They offer some protection from the elements and are easy to pull and store.

Most hard-sided pop-up campers can be pulled by a car or small SUV, are easy to put up and take down, and many have bathrooms and other useful amenities. Many can also be stored in a standard-size garage making indoor storage possible.

Pop-up campers with canvas sides are great but these hard-sided versions make camping a little more comfortable without busting your budget.

Let’s check out some advantages and disadvantages of hard-sided pop-up campers and see what manufacturers are creating in this RV category.

What is a Hard-Sided Pop-Up Camper?

Simply put, hard-sided pop-up campers are trailers that fold down into a small version for ease of travel. If you compare them to a tent trailer, also known as a pop-up camper, they simply have hard sides instead of canvas sides. This difference makes them closer to a regular pull-behind trailer than a tent.

Hard-sided pop-up campers feature solid walls made of materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, or composite panels. Solid walls provide protection against the elements and are more secure from human or animal intruders. These campers offer the strength of a travel trailer with the ease of a tent trailer.

7 Benefits Of Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

These “hybrids” are becoming more popular with nature lovers for many reasons. Let’s take a look at 7 great benefits of hard-sided pop-up campers.

1. Insulation

If you are someone who enjoys camping in all seasons, hard-sided pop-ups offer more insulation than regular pop-ups. Canvas sides make keeping warm or cool inside more difficult, while solid walls allow for better temperature control.

The hard-sided campers can retain more heat during the winter and cool air during the summer, making you more comfortable.

2. Durability

Of course, hard-sided pop-up campers are going to be more durable than canvas. Softer materials can sustain water damage, tears, snag on branches, or attract mold and mildew.

As a family of six, we started camping with our kids in a tent. We then moved to a canvas pop-up trailer which was great. We would have loved having a hard-sided pop-up camper for all the reasons I’ve listed here.

3. Bathrooms

Yes, many of these hard-sided pop-up campers even have bathrooms. This means more comfort for you. You can avoid the well-used campground bathroom or the pit toilets at state parks. Some of these even have showers.

Most won’t be very large and you may have a cassest toilet instead of a flush or no shower, however, it is still convenient.

4. Security and Privacy

Let’s be real. You just don’t get much privacy in a tent or a tent camper. The voices of your neighbors outside can be heard clearly and they can certainly hear you too. You will feel much more secure in a hard-sided pop-up camper.

Some brands and styles feature door and window locks, strong wall panels, and steel chassis. They protect you from almost anything in nature that might want to come inside including inclement weather, wild animals, or unwanted visitors.

5. Amenities

As I indicated, hard-sided pop-up campers are more likely to have bathrooms but you can also be sure they will have a kitchen with a sink, countertop, stovetop, and refrigerator.

Other things such as storage compartments, convertible seating, and even a king-size bed can also be included.

6. Fewer Restrictions at Certain RV Parks

For safety reasons, soft-sided campers could be restricted at some parks. Bears are a problem in many areas and food and trash could attract them to your camper. Canvas won’t keep them from getting into your stuff.

Once a bear finds easy food, it likely will become a nuisance. National Parks, state parks, and some private campgrounds don’t want this problem.

Hard-sided pop-up campers strike that balance with their convenience and ease of use, and their safety and compliance with restrictive campgrounds.

7. Easy Setup and Tear-Down

Hard-sided pop-up campers require a lot less assembly time than their canvas counterparts. First, you level your camper. Then, with most hard-sided pop-ups you simply unlatch the roof pieces and use an assistance pole that is included with the camper. Or just push them up if you are tall enough.

The roof snaps into place. Once the roof is in place, you can set the sidewalls and latch those into place. Then connect the two pieces of your door together with a latch and you are done. The teardown is similar, just backward.

If I remember correctly, with a soft-sided pop-up camper you raise the roof with a crank, slide out the bed or beds, and then button everything up with a lot of snaps.

Taking it down required cranking the roof down but it wasn’t as simple as it sounds. Once you had everything cleared for the beds to come in, you would be running around and around to push the canvas inside as the roof came down. It definitely took two people for the setup and tear-down.

Top 10 Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

If you’re sold on the idea of this hard-wall-style pop-up camper, look no further. We’ve assembled a list of 10 of our favorite hard-sided pop-up campers all perfect for your next adventure!

1. Aliner Family

• Length: 18’
• GVWR: 3,500 pounds
• CCC: 1,520 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 285 pounds

As the name implies, the Aliner Family is perfect for a camping family who wants the ease of towing with a homey feel when you arrive at your campsite. Any of the Aliner floorplans can easily sleep four with a dinette conversion or bunks.

The Family features city water hookups, a Fantastic fan, LED interior lights, and is pre-wired for solar. The electrical system is 120 volt/12 volt.

The Family is considered a deluxe version and has an 11-gallon freshwater tank, two-burner stove, large refrigerator with a freezer, hardwood cabinets, microwave, plenty of windows, and cable connection.

2. Chalet A-Frame XL 1935

• Length: 18’ 7”
• UVW: 2,165 pounds
• CCC: 1,335 pounds
• Tongue Weight:  370 pounds

As one of the most popular XL trailers, the Chalet XL 1935 model offers a permanent queen bed with plenty of under-bed storage. The dinette converts to a bed as well. You will love the 8’ of headroom in this pop-up.

A large galley, residential-height countertops, and windows and skylights provide ample light and views in all directions. There is also an optional wet bath and dormer available.

This self-contained folding trailer is easy to tow and quick to set up with a patented electronic roof lift system.

3. TrailManor 2518KD

• UVW: 2,600 pounds
• GVWR: 4,580 pounds
• CCC: 1980 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 320 pounds

The TrailManor 2518KD doesn’t need a large tow vehicle but you will have a large trailer experience when you open it up. You can tow these with a properly equipped minivan, crossover, or SUV.

These can also be stored in your standard-size garage and set up in just five minutes. You can even set up in the rain without everything inside getting wet!

Some features of the TrailManor include a dry bath with cassette toilet and shower, two burner stove, 3-way, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator, Fantastic vent fan, 20,000 BTU furnace, 20-gallon fresh water tank, and more.

4. Forest River Rockwood A122S

• Length: 18’ 8”
• UVW: 2,120 pounds
• GVWR: 3,284 pounds
• CCC: 1,164 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 284 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood A122S has a large storage area in the front and all the comfort features you could want in a small A-frame camper. It sets up in minutes with a large window on the front and a dinette that comfortably seats four.

The Rockwood also has a flip-up bed that is 54” X 80” and a dinette that makes it into a 45” X 80” bed, so you can easily sleep four. It boasts a 3-way refrigerator, outside griddle, 20-gallon freshwater tank, cassette toilet, and plenty of storage.

5. Antishanty AS1 Pro

• Length: 14’ 5”
• UVW: 2,000 pound

The Antishanty AS1 Pro is not your average hard-sided pop-up camper. It combines some of the best features of a travel trailer, toy hauler, teardrop, and overland trailer for a very cool rig. This tiny home has all the creature comforts you could want in an off-grid hard-sided pop-up trailer.

This trailer is compact for easy towing and storage, sleeps up to 4 adults in two queen beds, and has a whopping 9’ headroom. The insulated hard-sided cabin will keep you toasty no matter what season you are in.

Enjoy the six, shaded windows and skylight for plenty of natural light. When the sun goes down, you’ve got integrated indoor and outdoor lighting.

6. Aliner Evolution 12

• Length: 15′
• UVW: 2,000 pounds
• GVWR: 3,000 pounds
• CCC: 1,000 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 200 pounds

The Aliner Evolution 12 is one of this brand’s largest models with more living space, more storage, taller countertops, taller beds, and the highest capacity chassis. Even with more of everything, it is still a great hard-sided pop-up option that can be towed by many smaller fuel-efficient vehicles.

It is perfect for the whole family or a couple who just wants a little more room. The Evolution features an 11-gallon freshwater tank, plenty of electrical outlets, an optional off-road package, and much more. This little gem will easily get you to your favorite campsites.

7. Chalet LTW

• Length: 12’ 9”
• UVW: 990 pounds
• GVWR: 2,000 pounds
• CCC: 1,010 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 138 pounds

The Chalet LTW  is a small but unique trailer. It is easy to tow and maneuver around campsites, parking lots, or wherever the road might take you.

This unit includes standard features such as LED lighting, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator, two burner cooktop with cover, 16,000 BTU furnace, 3-speed fan, sink, and single propane tank. It has a 12-volt electric water pump and a 15-gallon freshwater tank. The Chalet LTW is pre-wired for solar and includes an optional solar package, and sleeps two.

Some of this model’s options include a rear bike rack receiver, dual propane tanks which include an automatic change-over regulator, a large front cargo box, a 6-gallon water heater with an outside shower, off-road suspension, and much more.

8. Taxa Mantis 

• Length: 19’
• UVW: 3,115 pounds
• GVWR: 4,200 pounds
• CCC: 986 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 435 pounds

The Taxa Mantis is a great adventure vehicle with plenty of room for the family. It has two activity areas at the front and rear of the floor plan and plenty of space in the middle. There is space to sleep at least four adults and its pop-up roof makes it feel more open.

It features a Dometic toilet and foldable shower, furnace, 8,000 BTU air conditioner, water heater, two-burner stove, full-size bed, folding couch/bunk bed system and much more for all your adventures.

With plenty of storage for the kitchen and bathroom, it also has a desk for any work you might need to get done.

9. Forest River Flagstaff T21DMHW

• Length: 21’ 2”
• UVW: 2,700 pounds
• GVWR: 3,353 pounds
• CCC: 653 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 353 pounds

Check out this unique high-wall A-frame which has a front dormer for added living area. The dormer allows for a full wet bath and front kitchen. You can set this one up quickly with the gas strut lift assist.

Up front, the Flagstaff T21DWHW  has a wet bath and kitchen. It comes with a CoolCat heat pump air conditioner, LP gas furnace, refrigerator, cooktop, and microwave. In the rear is a Queen-sized bed to prepare you for the next day.

Outside the features continue with a shower, stereo with indoor and outdoor speakers, exterior mount griddle, and work table. But that’s not it. This model also offers a 100-watt solar panel, aluminum wheels, storage compartments with a sliding trunk, ProRac Crossbars, 4 heavy-duty stabilizer jacks, and a spare tire.

You will lack nothing on this hard-sided pop-up camper.

10. Trailmanor 3124KB

• Length: 24’
• UVW: 3,140 pounds
• GVWR: 4,740 pounds
• CCC: 1,600 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 434 pounds

If you have a family and love having a towable and still stylish trailer, you will love the Trailmanor 3124KB . This model sleeps 7 and gives you the ultimate in amenities along with the same ease of setup as the smaller models.

You can enjoy a king-size bed in the KB and plenty of storage in the rear of the unit. The hard wall bathroom has a shower and tub, and the kitchen is complete with a three-burner stove, oven, sink, and 3-way, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator. The ample living space is great for relaxing and entertaining your friends.

The Trailmanor sets up quickly without having to unhitch and is light enough to be towed by a smaller tow vehicle.

Can You Tow A Hard-Sided Pop-Up Camper With A Car?

Many of these hard-sided pop-up campers can be towed with a car or a small SUV. Make sure you know your vehicle’s towing specifications before you purchase your trailer.

One of the great things about these trailers and the reason they are so popular is you generally don’t need a large truck to get these out on the road.

Do Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers Leak?

Of course, hard-sided pop-up campers have the potential to leak like other RVs. With the proper maintenance and regular inspection of seals, you will have a camper that will keep you seeking adventures for years to come.

Certainly, hard-sided pop-up campers are much less likely to leak than canvas pop-up trailers. However, one area of concern for hard-sided campers is any damage to the sides. Poorly maintained or deteriorated seals are also problematic.

Believe it or not. there are some models of pop-up campers that have slide-outs. Inspecting the slide areas for potential leaks is important. Moving parts always have the potential for problems. To learn more, check out our article called 8 Best Pop-Up Campers with Slide-Outs .

Checking seals often and making sure your camper is set up properly will help avoid leak issues. At the first sign of a leak, make sure to address it. Water damage spreads quickly and finds its way to places you won’t see.

Are Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers Worth the Money?

Hard-sided pop-up campers can cost anywhere from $10,000 to around $40,000. That is a big range for a relatively small camper. Is it worth the money? It could be, depending on what your tow vehicle is and what your camping plans might be.

As I said earlier, you don’t need to have a large tow vehicle with these, so it’s possible you won’t even need to purchase a vehicle to tow. You can buy a relatively nice travel trailer with a lot more room for $50,000 and up, but you will possibly need at least a half-ton truck to pull the trailer. That is another big investment.

You will want to consider what your current camping plans are when considering a hard-sided pop-up camper. It could work well for your weekend camping adventures with a small family or couple. Later, you might want to consider upgrading as you enjoy more time in the RVing world.

Hard-sided pop-up campers are currently enjoying a lot of popularity because they are easy to tow, and set up, and manufacturers are adding nice amenities such as bathrooms, showers, cassette toilets, well-apportioned kitchens, and more.

Can You Live Full-Time in a Pop-Up Camper?

Of course, you can live full-time in a hard-sided pop-up camper but first of all, you must consider your space needs. RVing is all about being outdoors so that’s likely where you will want to spend most of your time anyway.

Most of these campers do have options for an air conditioner and a furnace. However. they are not generally designed for full-time use so they may not hold up well in the long term.

Whether you are thinking about full-time or just weekends, rent a pop-up camper first. Pop-up campers aren’t a good fit for everyone so before cutting a check try one out.

Final Thoughts About Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

Hard-sided pop-up campers are a great option for anyone looking for ease of travel and easy setup. They are a great way to get your foot in the door of RVing without a massive financial commitment, both in the trailer and the tow vehicle.

Older canvas pop-up campers have some negativity surrounding them but that shouldn’t deter you from a hard-sided pop-up. These campers are a great option for singles, couples, and even small families.

The value and ease of towing they offer make them a very attractive way to get out and enjoy the RV life!

Related Reading:

– 10 best pop-up campers for beginners, – what exactly is a pop-up camper, – 7 best pop-up campers that sleep 8, – can you put a bike rack on a pop-up camper, about the author:.

Terri Nighswonger and her husband Todd have been RVing and work camping for five years with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Minnie Australian Shepherd, Remi.

They originate from the Midwest but plan to enjoy the West for a few years, wintering in Arizona and summering wherever the road may lead. Writing is Terri’s passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors.

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13 Best Pop-Up Campers for Singles, Couples, and Families

Published on December 30th, 2020 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on March 19th, 2024

Pop-up campers are a great alternative to full-size campers and motor homes, and still provide an excellent RV adventure. This is especially true if you are not ready to buy a bigger camper just yet. Here is my list of the Top 13 Best Pop-Up Campers so you can hit the open road.

I have done well over 50 hours of research to come up with this list. The research included reviewing forums, and RV review sites and reaching out to owners and to the manufacturers in situations where we have questions that were not answered on their websites.

Pop-up campers are small and don’t have slides but can easily be towed by a small SUV or car. They’re great for beginner RVers too!

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1. Sylvan Sport GO

The SylvanSport Go camper is one of the nicest and most versatile tent trailers we have come across.

There is a lot to like about this camper besides the great looks. It is extremely versatile and is considered the “Swiss Army Knife” of folding tent campers.

The SylvanSport GO can be used in 3 modes. “Camper Mode” allows you to deploy the tent and awning which gives you ample sleeping space, lots of headroom, and a great awning that is super easy to set up.

In “Gear Hauler Mode” you have room on top for kayaks, boards, bikes, or any other combination of gear you want to take with you. This is a great mode if you are just going down to the lake or beach for a day.

If you need to haul appliances or pick up a load of supplies from your local home store the “Utility Mode” lets you do just that.

This GO has the weight capacity to haul quite a bit of stuff. The living space is small but very useable. Excellent tent camping model than can easily be stored in your garage.

The low profile combined with the lightweight makes it a cinch to tow with just about any car or truck. The SylvanSport GO is practically zero maintenance, and it’s built to last right here in America. Unfortunately, no bathroom as with many pop up campers.

2. Forest RV River Flagstaff Tent Campers

Flagstaff, a division of Forest River RV has a line of tent camping trailers that are great looking and affordable. We like the interior color palette of these tent campers.

They offer the MAC and the High Wall hard-sided campers. The MAC series is more of your typical folding camper whereas the High Wall series has the amenities you find in a typical camper, including a shower and cassette toilet, and a very well-done interior decor all wrapped up in a lightweight camper. Also includes a sink and dinette.

As an option, you can get a hot water heater package that includes an outside shower, and if you want to install a solar panel this lightweight pop-up is solar prepped.

The sides extend like a slide-out to give you a very good sleeping space.

Since it employs a canvas tent you should check out what it takes to clean and maintain a pop-up canvas tent.

3. Forest River RV Flagstaff Hard sides

There’s more to this RV brand than just tent campers. They also manufacture hard-sided trailers. Don’t let the size fool you into thinking this is a cramped little trailer.

You’ll find floor plans that are over 20 feet in length when fully opened.

These hard-side campers give you a vacuum bonded fiberglass exterior that is easy to set up. What’s great is you still get the towing and storage advantages of a tent camper.

4. Coachmen Clipper 806XLS

The Coachmen Express 806XLS is a cool-looking camper with a rear tent that expands to add more space.

Towing the Clipper is easy due to its aerodynamic styling, and its super-lightweight. It features a Wide Trac Ultra Lube Spring Axle suspension, heavy duty tongue jack, and electric brakes. 

The inside is comfortable, with all the comforts of home including a full bed, two bunks, sink, water pump, two burner stove, refrigerator, and furnace.

5. Aliner Hard-Side

The company Aliner has 3 model types in its lineup. The Aliner is a hard-side camper and the Somerset is a tent camper.

The Ascape is a teardrop unit and one of the nicest folding campers that we’ll cover in another article. Here we’ll discuss the Aliner. The Aliner hard side comes in 3 sizes and 3 equipment levels.

You’ll find a Small (10.5-foot box on a 14-foot frame), a Medium (12-foot box on a 15-foot frame), and a Large (14.5-foot box on an 18-foot frame). The equipment levels are Standard, Upgraded, and Deluxe. Standard equipment is essentially electricity with water hookups.

The Upgraded equipment level gives you a propane system and more complex plumbing that includes holding tanks.

Finally, the Deluxe equipment package includes everything in the Upgraded plus it adds, a stove, large fridge, outside electrical receptacle, and stabilizer jacks on all 4 corners. However, no bathroom.

Can easily be towed by a minivan, small car, or SUV and can fit into just about any campsite.

If you are interested I wrote a review of the Aliner Expedition .

6. Aliner Somerset

The Somerset is a very well-equipped camper and one of the best in the industry and one of the nicest pop-up campers I’ve seen. Dozens of standard amenities make this dual-tent a perfect choice for a family.

There are 4 models in the Somerset line-up including the high-end Utah model which we particularly like. Definitely one of the best pop-up campers and built for comfort. Has good storage space and a small kitchenette

7. Air Opus Camper OP-Lite Off-Road

If you are looking for a compact trailer that is incredibly durable and has a beefed-up suspension that lets you take it just about anywhere then you need to take a look at the OP-Lite.

It uses AIR Tent inflation technology to quickly set up the tent portion of the trailer. It’s great for camping.

This trailer is versatile and rugged. This little camper is off-road-ready via its heavy-duty independent suspension which has been engineered to go anywhere you 4WD can go.

It also is equipped with all-terrain tires, a front rock guard, and underbody armor with diamond plating. No bathroom is available with the Opus floor plan.

It is pretty light coming in at just around 2,380 pounds. Here is a list of 15 pop-ups and their weight.

8. Taxa Outdoors Cricket

The Taxa Cricket is a unique-looking camper that is both lightweight and rugged. It can be towed by many 4-cylinder engines. It’s big enough to sleep, two adults and two kids.

The roof on the Cricket allows cross-ventilation but if you need it a little more cooler you can add an optional 5,000 BTU air conditioner. It has excellent features and specifications.

9. Forest River RV Rockwood ESP

The ESP (Extreme Sports Package) by Forest River is a folding tent trailer designed for active couples and families. If you are your family are into mountain biking, kayaking, or surfing the ESP allows you to carry your gear with little hassle, so you can make the most of your outdoor experience.

10. Chalet XL

The Chalet is an A-frame trailer available in 3 models that offer some unique amenities typically not found in this type of camper. The Chalet XL has a permanent queen bed which is very nice for this type of camper.

It is one of the lighter models in our Top 10 lineup.

Once extended you will find 8-feet of headroom which is quite high. The kitchen area boasts a large galley, residential height countertops, and plenty of windows and skylights to provide ample light in all directions.

Overall, the Chalet XL is an excellent camper that is easy to tow, easy to store, and has very low maintenance.

Their Patented Electronic Roof Lift System makes for a quick set-up. Optionally available on this camper are a wet bath and a dormer, which are excellent features to add. Easy for a camping setup.

11. Trail Manor 2518

If you are looking for a small pop-up camper the Trail Manor 2518 is not it. As a matter of fact, you are not going to find thin walls or canvas walls. What Trail Manor offers is expandable trailers with a hard roof and enough room so you can expect great comfort.

The 2518 series is a solid camper with a very unique design. It comes with many standard features such as rubber torsion axles with independent suspension, a hard top, a 20-gallon fresh water tank, a dry bath, and a cargo carrying capacity of 720 lbs. Air conditioning is available as an option with a low-profile air conditioner.

The Trail Manor is one of those pop-up that is good for almost year-round camping as it is well-designed for inclement weather and the alls help prevent loud outside noises.

12. Jayco Jay Sport

The 2019 Jayco Sport as a camper trailer is one of my favorites. It has a lot going for it including that you can tow it with many models of small cars, and it has less weight than many of the campers on this list.

The 10SD for example only weighs 1,720 lbs. If you want the best price for the Jayco Sport there are many used pop-ups of this model in availability. At the time of this article, RVTrader had 15 in inventory available all at affordable prices. To find the nearest ones to you just search by zip code.

13. Turtleback Expedition Trailer

What’s not to like about the Turtleback Expedition trailer. When it comes to recreational vehicles the Turtleback is like no other. This pop-up tent camper is designed for rugged outdoor use.

The Turtleback Expedition comes with features designed to give you optimum comfort and performance in the mist out of way places. You would think they were building a 5th wheel.

You’ll find standard features such as a birch kitchen, 42-gallon fresh water tank, Timbren Axl, welded 2 x 3 galvanized tube steel chassis, running lights, signal light, and much more.

If you want to upgrade well you can do that as well with three upgrade packages. You can tow the expedition with a 4 door jeep, Toyota FJ, or a larger SUV or truck. You can learn more about the Expedition on their website .

They do have financing available if you are interested. Just know the cost will go up dues to finance charges and fees.

Top FAQs About Pop-Up Campers

Below you’ll find some questions people ask about tent campers.

Can You Pull a Pop-Up Camper With a Car?

There is a handful of pop-up campers that can be pulled by a car. Keep in mind cars are not the most suitable vehicle to tow a camper, however, some of the ultralightweight tent trailers are easy to tow with a car. Always check the towing capacity of the car and make sure it is higher than the GVWR of the camper.

Are Pop-Up Campers a Good Investment?

If your intent is to buy a pop-up camper so you can sell it for more money at a later date then no a pop-up camper is not a good investment. A camper is just like any other vehicle or RV it will depreciate in value as soon as you drive it off the lot.

However, if you are buying a camping trailer to create memories with your loved ones and friends then yes a pop-up is a great investment. RVing is an activity that is affordable, and fun to do. It will surely create memorable times that will last your entire lifetime.

Pop-Up Campers Conclusion

As with any purchase, do your research before plunking money down on a camper. The prices shown above are average. Several of the pop-up campers have newer features like Bluetooth speakers and USB ports, and several offer different floor plans, as well as a water tank that can hold a gallon or more water.

If a pop-up is not something you are interested in how about a regular size camper from one of these top travel trailer brands?

If you’re still not convinced, check out this article I wrote on the pros and cons of owning a pop-up camper .

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The Complete Guide to Pop-Up Trailer Campers

You’ll never have to worry about sleeping on the floor again while indulging in the great outdoors.

By Chris Chin

It may be hard to believe right now, but fall is just around the corner — which means, with the scorching ambient temperatures and the soupy humidity of summer begin to subside, we’re about to be in the ideal temperatures for camping season.

While there are a variety of ways to accommodate sleeping arrangements once the fire burns out, the smores supply wanes, and the time to turn in for the night approaches — rooftop tents , regular tents , camping trailers , camper vans , et cetera — in this case, we’re talking about pop-up tent trailer campers .

Which, of course, may beg the question:

What Exactly Is a Pop-Up Tent Trailer?

When it comes to camping, you can always go the bougie glamping route with a decked-out motorhome, a camper bus , or even a fancy-schmancy Airstream ; yet these are big, cumbersome and pricey compared with the freedom and flexibility of other forms of camping. On the opposite side of the spectrum, one can go back to basics with a simple tent. Even with padding, though, trying to sleep on rough terrain however can be a major turnoff for many. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternative happy mediums in between — one of which is the pop-up tent trailer camper.

Think of it as a basic camping tent—or even, in some cases, a mobile compartmentalized gazebo—mounted permanently atop a small trailer chassis and equipped with onboard amenities. More than that, though, it’s all efficiently bundled together with sleeping arrangements that your back might appreciate — in a package almost any car can tow.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Trailer Tent

Pop-up trailer tents often come equipped with items similar those of a much larger camper, but in pint-sized portions. For example, depending on the model, you might find a small cooking station, hardtop and dinette seating surfaces, extra storage spaces, a kitchenette sink, even air conditioning. The standard features list tends to include integrated electronics and plumbing, flexible connectivity options for water, propane, and power hook-ups, and more.

But at the same time, trailer tents are not as cumbersome or expensive as full-sized trailers, which need heavy-duty pickups or beefy SUVs and lots of space to haul. Most pop-up tent trailers weigh less than 3,000 pounds meaning they can be hitched up to most mid-to-full-size vehicles, like your average crossover SUV . Additionally, many pop-up trailer tents collapse into it their chassis for mobility purposes; yet when set up at one’s favorite camping site, they’re screened off to keep nature out.

There are a few disadvantages, though — particularly if you’re a stickler for square footage, or if you have large groups of people with you, as tent trailers are meant to be a compact and efficient way to camp. And you do need a vehicle with some sort of tow hitch to be able to drive off with one. Those without a factory hitch would have to consider aftermarket options.

And then there’s cost. While they are significantly cheaper than a larger camper or “destination” trailer , they still can cost a pretty penny—at least, when compared to your average tent that costs a few hundred bucks. Most brand-new pop-up campers range from as little as $7,000 to over $20,000 for the larger, more lavishly equipped models.

The Best Trailer Tents

Like the trailer and motorhome market, there is a plethora of household names in the pop-up trailer tent market —as well as a few startups growing in popularity.

OPUS Camper

OPUS Camper , a subsidiary of trailering outfitter PurpleLine USA from Pittsburg, California, made a name for itself for offering a full lineup of luxury pop-up tent trailers geared towards overlanders. Feature rich and fitted with all-terrain tires and beefed-up suspension, OPUS campers are the Land Rovers of tent trailers.

Should you despise manual labor, all their models feature its in-house “OPUS Camper Inflation” technology, which means they can all be popped up and collapsed with a simple touch of a button in a matter of minutes. But be ready to fork over a nice chunk for this level of amenities; the base Opus Lite costs nearly as much as a brand-new compact car, starting at $19,900.

SylvanSport

SylvanSport is a known brand among hiking and kayak fans, and has since expanded to make its own camping trailer, the SylvanSport GO. Starting at $10,995, the SylvanSport is an affordable option for the camping couple or small family.

It utilizes a simple-yet-sleek skeleton design with an integrated a pop-up rooftop tent pod that provides sleeping quarters for up to four people. Should you not need to utilize said tent pod, the SylvanSport also doubles as an outdoor activity trailer, offering the flexibility to haul bicycles, kayaks and even dirt bikes without having to dismantle the tent pod.

Known for their “A-frame” style campers, Aliner is a reputable and well-respected brand for this unique type of pop-up. It may not be a pop-up tent trailer in the traditional sense, as it features solid walls rather than soft fabric walls, but they still come standard with integrated systems such as electronics and plumbing.

They also provide more secure and private quarters, in the event wild animals are a campsite issue. And because of its fixed design, there are fewer moving and expensive parts, so these A-frame pop-ups are on the more affordable side, with some offerings starting at under $10,000.

Starcraft / Jayco

Not to be confused with the popular videogame, Starcraft and its parent company as of the 1990s Jayco are both household mainstream names known for RVs, campers, and pop-up tent trailers. Both offer pop-up tent trailer campers with similar designs and floor plans, offering a ton of flexibility, versatility, and onboard amenities.

Starcraft currently doesn’t have any new model pop-up trailers in its current lineup, and the most recent model from Jayco is the 2019 Jay Sport. But pre-owned examples from both manufacturers are abundant on the second-hand market.

But wait, there’s more

This is just short list of some of the most popular manufacturers in the pop-up trailer tent market as there are plenty of other outfitters producing similar trailers. Other notable brands include Taxa with their Woolly line of trailers geared towards overlanders , Forest River RVs and Coachmen . So rest assured, if you’re in the market for a pop-up tent trailer, there’s no shortage of options.

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8 Best Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers in 2024 – Expert Pop Up Campers Guide

• Last Updated: May 27, 2024
• 17 minutes read

As an RV enthusiast who has hit the road in numerous models and makes, I’ve encountered the full spectrum of campers.

However, finding the best hard side pop up campers presented a unique challenge, marrying the comfort of a hard shell with the convenience of a pop-up.

This combination is ideal for those who love the adventure without compromising on security and ease of setup.

In my quest, I personally tested twelve renowned models to find those that stand out in terms of durability, design, and functionality.

The Aliner – Family Base Floorplan emerged as the top performer.

Its exceptional blend of spaciousness, robust construction, and family-friendly layout makes it a clear winner for anyone looking to invest in a hard-sided pop-up.

Based on my experience, the top pop-up campers are:

• Aliner – Family Base Floorplan : Best overall; family-oriented design with ample space
• Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S : Great for couples; cozy and compact
• Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO : Excellent storage solutions; ideal for organized travelers
• Aliner – Scout-Lite : Top pick for solo adventurers; lightweight and easy to hitch
• Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 : Luxurious option; equipped with high-end amenities
• Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW : Superior in versatility; features a hybrid dinette-slideout
• Aliner – Expedition : Favorite for extended trips; spacious with high capacity
• The Chalet LTW : Best for budget-conscious travelers; simple, efficient, and affordable

IN THIS ARTICLE

What Are Hard-Sided Pop-up Campers?

A Hard-sided popup camper travels down the road just like a traditional popup camper compacted into a streamlined trailer.

When you get to your campsite it expands up and out with movable hard-sided walls.

This provides you with better wind protection, warmth, and even more soundproofing than a traditional canvas popup camper. 

How Much Does A Hard-Sided Popup Camper Weigh? 

The average hard-sided popup camper weighs around 2,000-pounds, which makes them comfortably within the range of what most mid-size SUVs and powerful sedans can tow.

Though some are a little lighter, and a few are heavier. In general, the more features you add, the more the weight will drive up, with a complete bathroom and the water tanks that support it is the thing that drives up the weight the most. 

How Much Does A Hard-Sided Popup Camper Cost?

The average hard-sided popup camper costs between $12,000 to $20,000.

Though some stripped-down lightweight models can cost as little as $6,000, while some of them decked out luxury hard-sided popup campers can push over $25,000.

Working directly with a manufacturer or a certified dealership can give you access to customizable optional extras that let you develop a hard-sided popup camper to meet your needs at a price that fits smoothly into your budget. 

Do Hard-Sided Popup Campers Have Bathrooms?

Many hard-shell pop-up campers have a wet bath built into them or as an optional extra.

This is a combination shower and toilet built into a small compact corner or installed into a large interior cabinet.

Though this isn’t always the case, as some sacrifice any bathroom space to provide more kitchen or sleeping area. 

The 8 Best Hard-Sided Popup Campers In 2024

While choosing some of the best hard-sided popup campers we tried to keep a diligent eye out for material build quality as well as models that had friendly towing statistics.

We also kept a keen eye out for hard-sided popup campers that did a good job of addressing specific niche interests, such as families who love to boondock as well as families who love to stay close to the convenient resources of an RV campground. 

1. Aliner – Family Base Floorplan

• Length 18 ft. 
• A dry weight of 2,000 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,500 lbs.
• Fresh water storage tank capacity of 11 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people

Aliner is one of the hard-sided popup camper industry’s leaders with a lot of great models worth considering. This is often due to the easy way the middle of the roof pops up for quick setup.

Though as the name implies the 2021 Aliner – Family does an impressive job of meeting the needs of traveling parents with one to two children. It does this with a thoughtful floorplan that maximizes the number of people you can sleep, while still making room for a toilet and a sink.

This is rare for a hard-sided popup camper that has a dry weight under 2,000-pounds. It might just make the Aliner – Family Base one of the best hard-sided campers for a family that prioritizes lightweight towing and also wants a discrete interior toilet. 

One of the ways the Aliner – Family maximizes the interior living and sleeping space is by installing a pull-out exterior kitchen. It’s located in the front nose of the hard-sided popup camper and pulls out right in front of the camper pass-thru door.

It includes a DC-powered RV absorption refrigerator and a flush-mounted, two-burner propane stove. This also helps keep the heat of cooking a meal from warming up the compact interior of the hard-sided popup camper. 

Of course, the complaint here is that you have to cook your meals outside, which can be an issue if bad weather strikes at mealtime. Like a lot of hard-sided popup campers, there isn’t any sort of awning to protect you while you cook.

So, it’s wise to plan to include a heavy-duty pavilion tent or screen tent in your budget when you select the Aliner – Family as your hard-sided popup adventure camper. 

2. Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S

• Length 18.10 ft. 
• A dry weight of 2,120 lbs.
• The payload capacity of 1,164 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 284 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,795 lbs.
• Fresh water storage tank capacity of 20 gallons
• Sleeps up to 3 people
• 10,000 BTU air conditioner
• 10,000 BTU propane furnace
• 4.75-foot front cargo deck

One of the things that pops off the screen with the Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S is the front cargo deck to help bring bikes, dirt bikes, and other toys with you on your adventure.

Not to mention the roof rack that is sturdy enough to strap down a canoe or a pair of small kayaks. This makes it one of the best hard-sided popup campers for people who love to bring their outdoor equipment with them. It also spares you from having to strap these things to your SUV or other tow vehicles. 

One thing to keep in mind with all this equipment and storage space payload capacity is how it can affect the gross weight as well as the aerodynamics. If you load this hard-sided popup camper to the max, you are staring at a maximum GVWR of nearly 4,000-pounds, which might push what some mid-size SUVs can safely tow.

Though if you are frugal about the weight you pack into the Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S’s 2,120-pound dry weight, then it’s not too big of a worry. When you expand the Rockwood Hard Side A122S at camp, you get an impressive amount of interior living space.

This includes a swing galley and a microwave cabinet. There’s also a fair amount of interior storage space. This hard-sided popup camper also comes with a cool 10,000 BTU air conditioner as well as a 10,000 BTU propane furnace.

There’s even an exterior gas grill for times when you want to cook outside without heating up the interior. Just note that one of the tradeoffs for all this toy hauling and interior living space is that there is no formal bathroom or toilet.

So, you might want to plan a portable toilet to haul along on the front storage deck or plan to stay at RV parks and campgrounds that offer some sort of bathroom facility. 

3. Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO

• Length 17.5 ft. 
• Dry weight of 2,014 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,208 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 222 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,222 lbs.
• 10,000 BTU furnace

The Flagstaff is one of Forest River’s most successful platforms that you see showing up with popular features shared in many different models that bear the Flagstaff name.

So, it only makes sense that they would also bring their best to bear in the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO.

This A-frame popup camper is designed to sleep up to four people while also having the kind of thoughtful storage that lets a family bring all their essential items.

This includes a front exterior storage area that’s perfect for keeping dirty shoes and wet coats outside, without tracking inside. There’s also a large rear storage bay with an EZ reach access door. 

Like a lot of popular hard-sided popup campers, there is a tidy mid-ship galley and an exterior kitchen.

There’s even an interior RV refrigerator and an exterior gas griddle. Though the tradeoff for all these convenient appliances and storage space is the complete lack of any sort of bathroom. 

4. Aliner – Scout-Lite

• Length 13 ft. 
• Dry weight of 1,180 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,320 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 130 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,000 lbs.
• Sleeps up to 2 to 3 people

The Aliner – Scout-Lite is a compact lightweight hard-sided popup camper that is easy to tow with a mid-size SUV .

Depending on how much you pack into the 1,180-pound dry weight, you could conceivably tow this camper behind a small SUV or even a mid-size sedan with a towing package installed. 

The Aliner – Scout-Lite is geared for a couple, a single parent who loves to travel with their child, or perhaps a couple with an only child.

The rear bunk converts into a 40” X 76” bed that is tidy enough for two adults to snuggle up on, while still leaving a single front bunk for a child.

Of course, all this efficient interior living and sleeping space built into a very lightweight hard-sided popup trailer, with nice cargo storage does come with a tradeoff. There is no bathroom, simply a single sink for basic handwashing and perhaps cleaning up dishes.

This ultimately makes the Aliner – Scout-Lite one of the smallest and lightweight hard-sided popup campers for a couple with a small tow vehicle. 

5. Chalet A-Frame XL-1935

• Dry weight of 1,995 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 370 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,500 lbs.
• Optional dormer
• Electric roof lift system
• Solar prewiring
• Sleeps 3 to 4 people

The Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 is a hard-sided popup camper with a lot of optional extras to consider when you work with the manufacturer or one of their affiliated “Ambassadors.”

While things like the optional front dormer and optional wet bath can affect the dry weight and the potential gross vehicle weight rating, you are still looking at a model that will tip the scales at 3,500-pounds or less.

This is within range of a lot of popular domestic mid-size SUVs with a towing package equipped.

One of the other things that are attractive about the Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 is the fact that it comes prewired for solar and has LED lights installed.

Depending on whether or not you opt to have a wet bath and the necessary water storage tanks installed it can make this one of the best hard-sided popup campers for a small family that loves to spend a few days boondocking off the grid. 

6. Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW

• Length of 20 ft.
• Dry weight of 2,230 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,493 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 337 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,757 lbs.
• Fresh water storage capacity of up to 27 gallons
• 20,000 BTU furnace

The Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW is one of the best hard-sided popup campers for small families who love to travel with a lot of gear.

When fully loaded you can stack up to 1,493 pounds of cargo capacity it can tip the scales with a gross weight of up to 3,757-pounds, which can challenge what some mid-size SUVs can safely tow. 

Though if you happen to have a robust mid-size SUV or a full-size SUV with a towing package, then you will be treated with a lot of thoughtful storage potential.

Not to mention is a fresh water storage tank that is one of the largest in the hard-sided popup camper niche. 

The storage space of the Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW is very well thought out. It starts with a large exterior storage box with a quick release hatch on the front.

This lets you keep the tongue weight biased toward the front when you are towing, which helps with nimbleness.

When you set up camp, you can use the front storage box for keeping dirty shoes and other sundry items.

The interior of this hard-sided popup camper also has tons of storage in a compartment by the front dinette and a large flip-up storage compartment under the rear main bed. 

If there is a head-scratching complaint about the Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW it’s that you get a relatively large 27-gallon fresh water storage tank and a 6-gallon hot water heater as standard.

Though there isn’t any sort of wet bath or toilet option on the interior.

With some creative plumbing and a small privacy tent, you could run a hose and shower line from the kitchen sink out a window to take an outdoor shower. 

7. Aliner – Expedition

• Length of 18 ft.
• Dry weight of 1,850 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 240 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,500 bs.
• Fresh water storage capacity of up to 11 gallons

The Aliner – Expedition is another one of Aliners roomiest hard-sided pop-up campers. This is thanks in part to a pair of expandable dormers that provide additional headroom over the front dinette and the rear sofa.

This might just make the Aliner – Expedition the best hard-sided popup camper for families who need some extra headroom. 

One of the other things you can appreciate about the Aliner – Expedition is the 1,850-pound dry weight, which is well within the range of what most family mid-size SUVs can tow.

Yet it also has enough storage capacity to load it all the way up to a 3,500-pound gross vehicle weight.

If you do have a slightly under-powered SUV then you will need to be conscious about just how much you pack into this roomy hard-sided popup camper.

You might want to also make it a point to always travel with the fresh water storage tank empty. 

8. The Chalet LTW

• Length of 12.9 ft.
• Dry weight of 990 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 138 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 2,000 bs.
• Sleeps up to 2 people

The Chalet LTW is one of the lightest hard-sided pop-up campers on the market.

It only tips the scales with a dry weight of 990-pounds and when fully loaded it still has a maximum gross vehicle weight of only 2,000-pounds.

This makes it a great option if you have a small SUV or you truly do want to travel light and lean. 

One of the things to keep in mind when you work directly with Chalet or one of their “Ambassador” dealerships is the optional Trailboss Off Road Package.

It provides additional ground clearance, wider tires, an extra entry step, and a protective Rock Guard on the front.

This is a great option if you like to travel alone or with a significant other to primitive campgrounds or off-the-grid campsites. 

Just bear in mind that with a hard-sided popup camper this small, you aren’t going to get anything in the way of bathroom facilities.

So, you will need to add a portable toilet and a privacy tent to the list of things you can load into the 1,100 pounds of storage capacity. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cassette toilet.

With a lot of hard-sided popup campers that don’t offer a wet bath, will feature a cassette toilet.

This is a simple toilet with a removable 5-gallon black water storage tank. When it nears capacity, you simply remove the black water cassette and empty it out at an RV dump site.

This spares the weight and space of a traditional black water storage tank, while still providing you with a functional toilet for times when you might want to camp off the grid for a day or two. 

Do Hard-Sided Popup Campers Hold Their Value?

Just like any RV or vehicle, you will be staring at some immediate depreciation starting the second you drive it off the dealership’s lot.

In the first three to five years you can expect your hard-sided popup camper to lost 30 to 40% of its original value based on the MSRP.

Though they do tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional popup campers that typically suffer cracks and leaks in the canvas tent section. 

There are a lot of great hard-sided pop-up campers on the market. Finding the one that’s best for you will depend on the size of your family as well as your travel preferences. 

If you are just going to travel solo or with a significant other and you want to be able to camp off-road, then the Chalet LTW with the Trailboss Off Road Package might be the best hard-sided camper to meet your needs.

It is light enough to be pulled by a typical Jeep Wrangler, with all the features you need to tackle rough trails beyond the forgiving paved roads. 

If you need to sleep with one or two children and you need a proper toilet then the Aliner – Family might be the best hard-sided popup camper to meet your needs.

It provides your kids with their own sleeping space while providing the facilities you need to stay comfortable while you’re on the road.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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A-Frame Camper Trailers – Pop Up Campers, Hard Side

Posted By: Savage Camper

When folded for transit, an A-Frame Camper trailer might be mistaken for a pop up tent trailer, as they look almost identical. However, when popped-up, the difference is visibly obvious, with hard side walls and a steeped roof, making for a completely enclosed living area. Compare that to the traditional, canvas sided pop-up tent trailer, popular over the last handful of decades.

The result is a hard-sided, pop-up camper with improved protection from the elements.

Rockwood Hard Side, A-Frame Camper

Rockwood (and sister brand Flagstaff) a frame campers are manufactured by  Forest River. Both trailers feature a fiberglass, vacuum bonded exterior. With a quick, easy setup, Rockwood hard side campers have ample storage room.  Multiple floorplans in multiple configurations are available.

Standard Features (Partial List):

• Cherry Interior with “Wood-Look” Linoleum
• Two-Tone Fabric Seating
• Stainless Steel Look Appliances and Sink
• Double Pan Sink with High Rise Faucet (A194HW, A212HW Only)
• Electric Water Pump
• Large, Opening Picture Window

Learn more about Rockwood

Aliner Expedition A-Frame Camping Trailer

Aliner’s Expedition model is the largest of it’s fleet, coming in with an 18′ length and 84″ width. Even with it’s size, the Expedition weighs only 1850 lbs., making it towable by smaller SUVs. The 2 pop-up sections, called front and rear hard dormers, are options on this model.  Aliner also has many other models. If you’re looking for a-frame campers smaller and more compact, take a look at the Aliner Scout-Lite , which has an unloaded vehicle weight of 1180 lbs.

Bolwell RV AIR A-Frame Trailer

One look says it all – the Bolwell AIR a-frame camper is stunning in both looks and functionality. Towable by a small SUV, the AIR is aerodynamic when in transit, improving fuel-efficiency.

Manufactured in Australia, AIR’s construction is based on modern aerospace and composite technology. As a result, the camper is strong and resists corrosion worthy of the elements in the Outback.

Many quality features are standard on the AIR, as well as upgrades.

Jayco Jay Series Hardwall A-Frame Camper

Jayco’s Jay Series is a handsome-looking little hardwall camper trailer that comes with a very useful storage deck, so you can bring everything you need on your next outdoor adventure. Setting up the A-Frame camper is a simple 3-step process. Besides a ton of standard features and options that come with the Jay Series, it also has the option of an expandable screen room for more sheltered living space.

NOTE: It appears 2016 was the last year Jayco produced the J-Series A-Frame trailer, so your best option for one of these is to scour the used trailer market.

Arrowhead Pop-Up, A-Frame Trailer

At an overall length of 15’6” and base weight of 1,435 lbs, Arrowhead A-frame camper trailers are great-looking, well-built trailers.  Some of the standard features you’ll see inside an Arrowhead include:

• LED lighting
• Fridge, heater, 2 burner stove and sink
• Pre-wired for solar
• 15 gallon fresh water tank

On the exterior, you find standard features that include:

• Patented lever lift system for easy setup and takedown
• Insulated composite construction
• Electric brakes
• 4 stabilizer jacks
• High wind harness system

A load of options for the Arrowhead are available as well, including an off-road A-frame trailer package.

Related Articles

Pop Up Tent Trailer Options to Consider

5 comments on "a-frame camper trailers – pop up campers, hard side".

hello. i am looking for A frame popup with a toy hauler deck.

i have a Honda crv 1.8 motor would it be capable of towing your a frame van

Hi John, we actually don’t sell these A frame campers, but you can follow the links above to the manufacturer websites. I don’t know what year CRV you have, but the 2017 version has a towing limit of 1500 lbs., with what appears to be a larger motor than what you have. I’d recommend doing a Google search for your year vehicle’s towing capacity. All this being said, it looks as though many of A frame trailers weigh around 1,500 lbs or more which would be out of your towing capacity I believe. For camping trailers more likely within your towing capacity, you might consider an affordable teardrop trailer instead, which typically weigh well under 1,000 lbs. One other note, don’t forget to consider the weight of your camping gear as well.

please, more interior pan photos

I am looking for a self contained A-Frame camper that can be tow by a 4 door jeep. Can U please send me a brochure on your line up of A-Frames. R U going to be at the Tampa RV show in Florida?

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• 🏕️ Pop Up Camper

What Is A Pop-Up Camper? All You Need To Know About Folding Trailers

By Marshall Wendler

Pop-up campers (also known as folding camping trailers or tent trailers) are like cool transformer RVs.

They are compact and streamlined while towing but expand open at a campsite, giving space to sleep and hang out when not enjoying the great outdoors.

Because they are smaller and lighter than a traditional travel trailer, they can be towed by smaller SUVs or trucks. This makes them an ideal recreational vehicle for weekend warriors and those who don't want to spend a small fortune on a larger rig.

But what is a pop-up trailer, and is it the right style of RV to give you the camping experience you are looking for?

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What Is A Pop-Up Camper?

A pop-up camper is a unique travel trailer that can fold into itself when not used and then expand when used while camping.

The roof lowers down over the main body with a foldable camper to significantly reduce overall height. This makes it easier to tow, saves money on fuel, and allows it to be stored inside a garage.

When you reach your camping destination, you set it up to reveal the living quarters, which are often quite spacious considering the compact dimensions while in travel and storage mode.

A pop-up travel trailer is an excellent alternative to tent camping in that it lets you sleep in a residential-style bed while being off the ground and more out of the weather.

Many models in this style of recreational vehicle will include an inside cooking area, and there may be a toilet. But don't expect to find a shower in many models as the amenities can be pretty basic.

Foldable RV trailers are not fancy rigs by any stretch of the imagination. They give you a reasonably comfortable and affordable place to stay while enjoying the great outdoors at your favorite campground.

Pop-Out Camper Quick Stats:

(Stats are approximate ranges to give you a general idea.)

• Length: 8 to 31 feet (in the 'open' position)
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6 people
• Slides: 0 to 1
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,200 to 5,200 pounds
• Retail Price: $10,000 to $30,000
• Just purchase a new rig? Curious how you should outfit it? Check out our popup camper accessories page to learn more.

Fold Out Camper Pros and Cons:

• Affordable alternative to tent camping
• Can be towed by almost any vehicle capable of towing
• Easy to maneuver and will fit in nearly every campsite
• No frills recreational vehicle
• Soft-side folding tent trailers don't offer much protection from heat extremes
• May lack a toilet or shower

Ultimate Guide To RV Types

Confused about the different camper classes ? Read our guide that explains the differences styles.

Two Styles Of Folding Camper

There are two folding RV trailers - the popup tent camper (soft-sided) and the hard-sided collapsible camping trailer.

They both have the same characteristic of folding down to a low overall height when towing or for storage.

One style features canvas walls on the pop-up portion of the trailer, while the other style features rigid walls.

Pop Up Tent Trailer

The soft-sided camping tent trailers use canvas material for the walls.

The sides of a pop-up tent trailer don't provide much protection from severe weather as they lack any serious insulation.

If the wind is blowing, you will know it. If the rain is coming down in sheets, a little may get inside (though this shouldn't be an issue if the canvas walls are in good condition).

Forget about any sense of privacy when you are inside a camper tent trailer with canvas materials that make up the wall.

A pop-up camper trailer is no better than a tent for keeping outside noises out. Let's face it, any RV is not good at keeping noise out. But when the thin walls are nothing fabric, you will hear everything.

The pop up camper weight isn't very high, so it's really easy to tow with just about any vehicle. Plus, the size of a small fold-out tent trailer means it's fairly easy to store, including fitting into many residential garages.

Pop-Up Tent Trailer (Up Position)

Pop-Up Tent Trailer (Down Position)

Hard Side Collapsible Camper Trailer

The hard-side pop up camper has actual walls that fold down (the  Aliner   A frame camper is an example -  pictures below ), or the roof will come down over the lower section ( TrailManor  collapsible travel trailer is an example - images below ).

The style of hard-sided fold-down camper that has the folding walls is most frequently an A-frame trailer. They resemble the letter 'A' with a high peaked, sharp sloping roof when you look at them from the side.

Because of this shape, they are also known as triangle campers . Below are pictures of the Aliner , showing the up and down positions.

Aliner Pop Up Camper (Up Position)

Aliner Pop Up Camper (Down Position)

The hard side foldable travel trailer such as the TrailManor shown below looks more like a traditional camping trailer when in the extended position.

It offers the most interior room of all fold-down camping trailers.

This will also be the most comfortable folding travel trailer brand as the design is closer to a 'normal' recreational vehicle.

There are comfort amenities such as a bathroom with a separate shower, a dinette, a separate sleeping space with real  camper mattresses , a larger refrigerator, a normal-sized stove with oven, optional air conditioning, and other equipment that you'd typically expect to see on  other types of RVs .

The downside is the increased weight and size, though they do offer floorplans that can be towed by smaller vehicles, so you don't need a large truck.

TrailManor Hard Sided Pop Up Camper (Up Position)

TrailManor Hard Sided Pop Up Camper (Down Position)

Interiors Of PopUp Campers

The interior of collapsible campers will be a pretty basic design, and materials will be on the cheaper side to keep prices down.

Size and weight are HUGE factors for these tow-behind pop-up campers, so you typically won't find room for large families (more suitable for couples) with fairly tight living area space.

Pop-Up Tent Trailer Interior

Seating may be limited to a dinette but should have space for up to 4 people. Cushions will be thin and not very comfortable, so if you are using your fold-up camper trailer frequently, this might be a good place to upgrade.

These RVs may not have a bathroom facility, and if it does, it most likely will just be a  portable toilet  tucked under a bench.

The exception to this would be hard-sided fold-out travel trailers made by  TrailManor , which can have a full-size bath that is a separate room. Pretty luxurious for a popup!

• Like the size of popups but really, really want a bathroom? As in a real bathroom! Learn about other tiny campers with a bathroom .

TrailManor Hard Side Pop Up Camper Interior

There will be a basic kitchen with nothing too fancy. Basic cooktop stove, small sink, and maybe a tiny refrigerator, but look elsewhere if you want a microwave or standard oven as there isn't space for this in small pop up campers .

You will have a freshwater tank and some sort of  camper holding tank  with a basic trailer water pump . Keep in mind that the tank capacity will be pretty limited, so don't expect to have 40 gallons of water available as you may with a much larger rig.

Bed areas commonly are in a section that folds out from either end. The actual  pop-up camper mattress  will be thin and will do in a pinch but won't compete with a 4-star resort.

So the interior of a fold-out camper trailer is fairly no-frills with basic dining and seating areas but isn't the kind of a place that you'll invite all your friends over to hang out.

But it does have everything you need to have a great experience enjoying the outdoors and is a definite step up from tent camping.

Stand-Out Features Of Pop Up Camping Trailers

Pull behind pop-up campers are small but pack a good number of features in a compact package. Just keep in mind that the 'features' listed below won't be as mind-blowing as you will find in larger, more luxurious recreational vehicles.

Considering its compact size, a pop-top camper trailer has everything you need to have a great camping experience.

One or more dry places to sleep, food storage and preparation facilities, sink for washing, seating space for multiple people, and often a simple toilet can be found even in the most basic folding tent campers.

Step up to a bit fancier pop-up RV, and you'll have such 'fancy' things as a hot water heater, AC unit, enclosed bathroom, and solid walls for a bit more privacy and weather protection. (Learn which is the best pop up camper with bathroom .)

These rigs range from a basic towable tent trailer (definitely a step-up from tent camping) to a folding travel trailer that is lighter and easier to tow than full-sized versions but offers many of the same features and comforts.

Don't expect to find large storage compartments on the outside of a fold-up trailer.

They are small on the inside, which translates to little interior (or exterior) storage space.

You can find a pop-up camping trailer that offers a 'tray' up front that allows you to bring along toys such as ATVs, dirt bikes, kayaks, etc.

This makes for an overall longer length, but it is convenient to bring all the goodies with you.

You may find a pop-up trailer with a  slide to expand the living space , but the slide will be a manually operated affair and not overly common.

(Other recreational vehicles have electric or hydraulically operated slides.)

Slide Creates More Interior Living Space

Most pop-up campers will be of a design that allows for relative ease converting from the down/travel position to the up/living position.

Spring or strut assists make the process easy for a single person to handle.

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Towing A Pop Up Trailer

A folding camper trailer shines in how easy it is to tow.

A lightweight popup camper will only have a single axle and can be towed by just about any vehicle because of its smaller size, narrower width, relatively short length, and modest weight.

Pop-Up Trailers Are Very Low Profile For Easy Towing

Pop-up trailer manufacturers talk about improved fuel economy by not having to pull a tall, not at all aerodynamic box on wheels down the road.

The collapsible nature of a pop-up camper trailer means less wind resistance while towing.

Combining that with the lighter overall weight equals better fuel economy.

How Much Does A Pop Up Trailer Cost?

Retail prices for a new pop-up tent trailer start at around $10,000.

The A-frame style of a pop-up trailer (and other hard-sided popup camper options such as Trailmanor) can run upwards of $40,000+.

For this amount, you will get a relatively basic unit with average quality furnishings (definitely nothing fancy!).

However, this camper style does offer an easy and relatively affordable camping adventure (an RV tent trailer being the best price).

Tent camping trailers are great for beginner RVers looking to build up experience!

• Learn how to figure out used travel trailer values to see if buying used makes more financial sense than buying used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you live in a pop-up camper year-round.

While living in a popup camper year-round is possible, you will want to do so only in more temperate climates. A typical pop-out tent trailer only has canvas walls and little insulation, so you won't be equipped to deal with temperature extremes.

A hard-sided fold-down travel trailer gives you better protection from the weather and can come equipped with a furnace and air conditioning to deal better with hot or cold temperatures.

While no RV will handle sub-freezing or 100+ degree temperatures, folding camper trailers are generally less equipped to deal with extreme weather.

Are Hard-Side Pop-Up Campers Any Good?

Hard-sided popup campers are a great option if you are looking for a lightweight, easy to tow recreational vehicle. They offer quality construction and basic amenities that you need to have an enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Hard-side pop-up campers offer a few distinct advantages over tent campers: Their solid walls provide better weather protection and do a better job of keeping the critters out. They also cut down on outside noise intrusion better than their canvas walled counterparts.

What Is The Average Price Of A Pop-Up Camper?

The average price of a pop-up camper can range from $10,000 for a basic pull behind tent camper to over $40,000 for a well-built collapsible travel trailer.

This is a case of you getting what you pay for. If you want no-frills with few amenities, a small tent camper trailer is an affordable way to go camping.

If you are looking for a reasonably lightweight, extremely low profile, easy to tow trailer, folding travel trailers with hard sides are a great option but will cost more money.

What Is A Good Price For A Used Pop-Up Camper?

If you don't want to buy new, how do you know a reasonable price for a used popup camper? There are several ways to find out what you should pay for a used folding RV, which we outline in our article on  finding used RV prices . Learn what you should pay for a used rig, and then go shopping!

Is It Worth Buying A Pop-Up Camper?

It is worth buying a popup camper if you are looking for an easy to tow, lightweight alternative to a traditional recreational vehicle. A trailer tent camper is the most affordable way to get into RVing and is a great way to try out the lifestyle before purchasing a larger, more expensive rig.

Is A Pop-Up Camper A Good Investment?

If by 'good investment' you mean an asset that will make you money, then no, a pop-up camper isn't a good investment. No RV is.

However, a fold-out camper is an excellent investment in happiness if you enjoy outdoor adventures and traveling to beautiful locations. They provide an economical way to travel and see sights you otherwise would never be fortunate enough to visit.

How Long Do Pop Up Campers Last?

A properly maintained popup camper can last for many years, and it wouldn't be out of the question to have a foldable RV last 20 years if it is taken care of and stored out of the elements.

Keep in mind that the canvas walls of a tent trailer will age over time and most likely will need to be replaced before any other major component.

It is tough to say what is the average life of a pop-up camper because so many factors come into play. But like many things in life, the better you take care of your RV, the more years it will last.

Treat your collapsible camping trailer well, and it will provide you with many years of outdoor enjoyment.

Is A Tent Trailer An RV?

Yes, a tent trailer is an RV, and in fact, a popup camper is considered a travel trailer.

Are Pop Up Campers Hard To Set Up?

While pop-up campers aren't challenging to set up, they can take some time to get things put together. Because they are collapsible campers, several steps need to be followed to 'expand' the RV and get it ready to use once you reach your campsite.

Here are a couple of videos that show setting up a tent trailer and a hard-sided camper.

Is A Pop-Up Camper Considered Self-Contained?

A pop-up camper is considered self-contained if it has a fresh water tank, gray water tank (for sink and shower wastewater), and a toilet with its own holding tank.

Some smaller tent trailers don't have a wastewater system, so these would not be considered self-contained.

Do Pop Up Campers Have Electricity?

Yes, pop-up campers have electricity. They will have a dedicated 12-volt system that runs off a 12-volt battery (or batteries). This will power the lights, ventilation fans, and other smaller appliances and accessories.

There will also be a 120-volt shore power system that requires a dedicated 30-amp power source and will power an air conditioning unit, electric water heater, microwave (if equipped), or any other higher power usage appliances. Though smaller pop-up RVs don't have many devices that require high electrical usage.

Do Pop Up Campers Leak When It Rains?

Correctly maintained and set up pop-up campers should not leak when it is raining. If you do not install the canvas properly when setting up a tent trailer, there is a possibility that water will get inside, but if set up properly, there should be no leaks.

If the canvas walls get wet, make sure they dry thoroughly before folding the camper back into the travel position so that the canvas doesn't mold or mildew.

Do Hard Side Pop Up Campers Leak?

Hard-sided popup campers are even less prone to leaking than tent trailers because the solid walls have fewer potential entry points. Assuming the rubber seals between the moveable hard walls are well maintained and in good condition, there should be no water intrusion when it rains.

If you are looking for an entry-level recreational vehicle that is good for quick weekend getaways, lightweight pop-up campers are something to consider.

A collapsible camper isn't fancy and doesn't have much in the way of luxuries, but that isn't the point of these rigs.

Folding campers let you get out to your favorite campsite and enjoy the outdoors by yourself or with your family while being a step (or two or three) above having to rough it in a tent.

Fold-down campers can be towed by just about any vehicle, which means you don't have to invest in a large truck that may be required if you have a larger RV.

This means the barrier to entry is low, making pop-up trailers a great way to try out the RV lifestyle and see if it is right for you.

• If you found this information useful, check out what else we have here on Camp Addict .

Author: Marshall Wendler

Marshall was a co-founder of CampAddict.com and ran the business until April 2024, when he sold the business to Schwalm Inc. He is a seasoned RV expert who has lived the full-time RV life for years, gaining hands-on experience in his travel trailer from 2014 to 2020 and graduating to that #vanlife lifestyle since. Marshall thrives on the freedom of boondocking and he enjoyed sharing his technical insights with the Camp Addict community. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to RVing, his articles are here to guide you confidently through the exciting world of RVing.

We are senior citizens, thinking about a pop up camper of some sort so, we can travel to see our grandchildren, w/o all the safety/health concerns during this pandemic.

A pop-up camper is a great way to get out and camp. They are relatively affordable, easy to deal with, and can be towed with just about anything that has the ability to tow (so no huge trucks needed).

It sounds like a great way to travel while eliminating a lot of concerns that are present in the world today.

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Tent Trailer Camping: Here’s Why You Need a Pop-Up Camper

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Not much has been spared from the clutches of materialism in our consumer-crazed world, not even the age-old pastime of camping.

Take a trip to any campground these days, you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone using a tent. Large travel trailers, expensive pickup trucks, and motorhomes equipped with amenities that rival a custom-built home occupy most campsites.

Are tent trailers, also known as pop-up campers, the solution? They might offer the perfect blend between tents and full-scale RVs, at an affordable price. In this post, I’ll share my experience with tent trailer camping, and let you know what makes them a great fit for families with kids.

The Early Years…

I never really camped as a kid. I mean, I did on a couple of occasions, but it wasn’t a pastime that we took up as a family. But regardless of my lack of exposure to camping early on, as I got older, it was always something I felt I would want my kids to experience.

Fast forward to eight years ago.

A friend of mine was taking his two boys camping at a nearby provincial park and called to ask if my son, who was around ten at the time, wanted to join them.

It was just one night, but I thought it would be a cool experience, so I quickly agreed. As it turned out, one night was all it took; I was hooked. I can recall the very moment I realized it.

A Sky Full of Stars

It was late in the evening, the boys had gone to sleep, and my friend and I were sitting by the fire, deep in conversation. I leaned back, and in the darkness, could make out the tops of the towering pines, swaying gently as the breeze moved through them. The trees appeared as black shadows against the night sky.

Above them was a canopy of stars. Without the pollution from house lights and street lamps, it’s incredible how brilliant the night sky becomes.

I distinctly recall how peaceful it felt and thinking how much I wanted my family to share the experience.

Agenda-Free Living

Based on my very romantic description above, I highly recommend camping to anyone. But there’s more to it than a starry sky.

When you’re camping, there’s no plan – no alarm clocks, no morning commute, and no meetings. You get things done, but you do them on your own time. The oft-harried pace of daily life is placed on pause for a few days. And it’s an easier environment than most to put down your phone and connect with real people.

Camping Can Be Very Expensive

…but it doesn’t have to be.

If you’re interested in taking up camping but tenting is too hardcore for your taste, owning a tent trailer or pop-up camper can be a great alternative.

While it’s important to pack the  camping essentials , there’s no need to fork out tens of thousands of dollars on a luxury RV, not to mention the expensive pickup truck you would need to tow it.

Our Tent Trailer Camping Experience

That night my son and I spent camping with my friend and his boys had me hooked.

The following summer, my wife and I purchased a used tent trailer from my brother-in-law, who decided to, you guessed it, upgrade to a much larger and fancier RV.

6 Benefits of Pop-Up Campers

We’ve had our pop-up camper for seven years now, and we love it more than ever. In fact, I believe that just might be the best way to camp for families with kids.

To help convince you, I’ve created the following list of tent trailer camping benefits. I’ve also taken the time to dispel a few myths.

Tent Trailers Are Economical

We purchased our used tent trailer for $2000 nine years ago. I replaced the wheels this spring for $140, but aside from that, it hasn’t cost us a penny. Compare that to $25,000+ for a new travel trailer, financed over 15 or 20 years, not to mention the expense of having to own a pickup truck to tow it around.

Pop-Up Campers Allow the Air to Flow

This may be my favorite thing about camping in a pop-up vs. the hard-shelled variety. Because you can unzip the screens on all sides, it’s easy to get plenty of air flowing through the camper. On a summer night under a starry sky, nothing feels better.

Tent Trailers Sleep a Ton of People

Tent trailers can sleep more people than even the most enormous luxury RVs. A friend of mine has a larger tent trailer (12′ box), which sleeps ten people! 

Ours has a 10′ box and sleeps eight comfortably. On one end, there’s a king-sized bed, and a double on the other. Two benches pull out into a double and single bed. It’s more than enough room for our family of five, with space for one of the kids to bring a friend along.

If you feel the need to spread out, you could always purchase a tent to pitch outside the camper. We haven’t needed for that, but it is an option. 

Related Post: 50 Fun Things to Do While Camping

Pop-Up Campers Are Easy to Tow

Here is where small pop-up campers have a distinct advantage over much larger and heavier travel trailers. That is, a minivan or small SUV can tow them with ease. There’s no need to own an expensive gas-guzzling pickup truck or monster SUV. We own a 2005 Toyota Sienna with a 3.3L engine. It has a towing capacity of 3500 pounds, which is more than enough for a pop-up tent trailer. 

If you have a vehicle that can tow a small pop-up camper, but it doesn’t have a trailer hitch, you can pick one up for a few hundred dollars and have it installed by a mechanic. Here’s a   trailer hitch  that’s similar to what we have. Before you buy, it’s essential to check the towing specs for your specific vehicle to make sure you get the right trailer hitch. 

Pop-Up Campers Are Easy To Store

When camping season is over, you need a place to park your RV. Unless you own acreage, you likely have to pay someone to store it for you. Prices vary but start upwards of $100/month.

Our tent trailer sits on an 8 X 10 foot set of patio stones in our backyard, and we can quickly move it in and out with our van.

A Tent Trailer Duobles As a Sunroom

We keep our tent trailer set up in our driveway when we’re not camping during the summer months. In other words. It makes for the perfect sunroom! I’ll grab an afternoon nap there, use it as my summer “office” where I do my writing, and the kids will often use it for sleepovers with friends. 

Dispelling Myths of Tent Trailer Camping

There are several myths about pop up campers that I would like to dispel, starting with perhaps the #1 complaint that you hear

Tent Trailers Leak 

The slide-outs on a trailer tent are covered with canvas, so people often assume that water can easily penetrate the surface when it rains.

In the seven years, we’ve owned our tent trailer, we’ve endured many a rainy day. I can say that we haven’t had a drop of water get inside the camper during that time.

Of course, you do have to be careful not to get rips or tears in the canvas, and if it is wet outside, it’s essential to avoid touching the canvas from the inside, or water could saturate through. I highly recommend that you keep a  screen repair kit  handy. This way, if you do get a tear, you’ll be ready to make a quick repair. 

Pop-Up Campers Lack the Creature Comforts of an RV

Our pop-up trailer has a furnace that keeps us perfectly warm on some relatively cool evenings early in the camping season. It also has a small refrigerator. 

To ensure there’s always space to keep perishable food cold, I picked up this  Coleman electric cooler , which we also use on long road trips in our van. To save space inside, we leave our cooler plugged in outside the camper on a picnic bench, where it’s easily accessible. 

Another option, which will save you money, is to pick up a  Marine-style cooler , which aren’t powered but are well insulated and can keep ice for up to 6 days! Another advantage to this type of cooler is that you get them in much larger sizes to hold more stuff, which is perfect for a larger family. 

Our pop-up camper also has a stove that you can set up inside or outside, and I never forget to bring this  electric griddle  along to make pancakes, bacon, and eggs in the morning. I never leave home without it! 

If the campsite has a water supply (sometimes they do, occasionally they don’t), we can use a garden hose to connect the sink in our tent trailer. This allows us to do dishes or wash up. I bought a separate garden hose  like this one  that we only use for camping. It doesn’t have to be very long; 10-25 feet is more than enough. 

Making Coffee In a Pop-Up Camper

Here’s a GREAT tip for all the coffee lovers out there. If you don’t want to compromise on your coffee when camping away from home, you must pick up an  Aeropress . Have you heard of it? It’s like a portable french press that’s perfect for the road. 

In my opinion, it’s the absolute best way to make coffee while camping. The flavor is far superior to percolated coffee, and it’s effortless to clean. When finished, you tap the grinds into the garbage. We also bring a traditional coffee maker , but we never leave home without the  Aeropress . 

Related Post: 46 Best Camping Essentials for 2021

Drawbacks of a Pop-Up Camper

I’ll admit, tent trailer campers do have a few limitations when it comes to amenities. While some larger models come equipped with toilets, most do not, and they certainly don’t have a dedicated washroom or shower.

Most campgrounds have restroom facilities that people prefer to use, as they tend to be spacious and clean.

Our pop-up camper doesn’t have air conditioning, though some tent trailers do. With the abundance of air flowing through our camper, however, it’s not often that I wish I had A/C. 

Tent Trailer Set Up and Tear Down

This is one advantage that a hard shell RV has over small pop-up campers. There is a moderate inconvenience in setting up and tearing down a tent trailer before and after using it.

But it’s not as much work as it may seem.  When we arrive at a campsite, we can do a full set up in about 15 or 20 minutes. The same goes for tearing down when we leave.  In my mind, it’s a small price to pay for all of the other benefits.

Final Thoughts on Camping in a Pop-Up Trailer

We’ve owned our pop-up tent trailer for eight years now, and I hope to have it for many more. If it sounds like something you’d enjoy, but you’re not quite ready to take the plunge, consider renting one for a weekend to try it out. These days, apps like  Outdoorsy  and  Rvezy  make it possible to rent pop-up campers without making a substantial financial commitment. 

In the meantime, I’d love to get your thoughts, and your best tent trailer camping stories, in the comments below. 🙂 

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10 Perfect Travel Trailers to Tow With Your Half-Ton Truck

We've curated 10 camper trailers perfect for half-ton pickups that cover a broad range of styles, construction, and design characteristics. Among this selection of travel trailers are towable habitats to satisfy an array of interests ranging from relaxed family camping to energetic backcountry exploration.

If you're looking for something that sleeps an entire troop of family members, we've got that. If it's a deep off-road reach you're hankerin' for, that's here, too. If you like something a little cushy while having outdoor adventure close at hand, you're in luck. Take a look, compare features and specifications, and then check out more options and information on each travel trailer manufacturer's website.

Note: All prices listed are MSRP.

10 Perfect Half-Ton Pickup Compatible Camper Trailers

Airstream bambi 22fb : $69,200+.

• Base weight: 3,900 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 500 lbs.
• GVWR: 5,000 lbs.
• Overall length: 21 ft., 11 in.
• Exterior width: 8 ft.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 3 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 4 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• LPG capacity: Two 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 23 gals.
• Gray water tank: 30 gals. 
• Black water tank: 17 gals.

The Airstream Bambi trailer line is available in four different models ranging from 16 to 22 feet in length. The Bambi is a perfect example of Airstream's classically stylish aluminum design and sturdy construction. We chose to highlight the Bambi 22FB floorplan because it's the largest member of the Bambi family, is easily maneuverable, and is a great fit for a half-ton pickup truck like the Ford F-150 .

Airstream has been a pioneer in the RV industry since its inception in 1931. The Bambi travel trailer line is a masterpiece of maximizing available space while still delivering top-of-the-class features and amenities. The Bambi 22FB is big enough to comfortably sleep four people.

It offers a primary front bed with a view and a fully equipped bathroom. It also offers a large storage closet, spacious and well-equipped kitchen, and convertible U-shaped dinette.

As with most Airstream trailers, the Bambi's exterior is a semi-monocoque aluminum superstructure instead of the more typical wood-framed camping trailer construction. Running gear includes a torsion axle suspension and ST 225/75R15 tires on 15-inch aluminum wheels.

The Airstream Bambi 22FB delivers as standard equipment a 26-inch-wide entry door, rear-view monitoring system, LED lighting seemingly everywhere, and an enclosed, aluminum insulated and heated underbelly. Equipment often on the options list of other trailers, like an LED HD television with DVD and omnidirectional antenna, are also standard on this camping trailer.

Coleman Lantern 285BH : $43,320

• Base weight: 6,611 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 869 lbs.
• GVWR: 9,680 lbs.
• Overall length: 32 ft., 9 in.
• Exterior height: 11 ft., 2 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 8
• LPG capacity: Dual 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 60 gals.
• Gray water tank: 42 gals.
• Black water tank: 42 gals.

Coleman's iconic pop-up tent trailer that so many began their family camping experiences in a generation ago is no longer being built. However, the Coleman trailer brand and its legendary utility have been transformed under the Dutchmen RV umbrella. A fully featured line of Coleman travel trailers is now available that can serve as a perfect support system for outdoor adventures.

The Coleman Lantern 285BH is on the larger end of our scope of interest here but remains easily towable (with a weight-distributing hitch) using a half-ton pickup truck such as the Chevy Silverado 1500. We think the Coleman Lantern 285BH camping trailer would be a good choice for a larger family or an extended family group that enjoys the outdoors.

It features bunk beds, a large slide-out with a convertible couch and dinette, and a primary bedroom with a queen-size mattress. This combo makes it capable of sleeping up to eight people.

An insulated structure with a metal exterior panel, wood framing with thermal insulation, and a Lauan (a hardwood plywood) interior panel is a typical trailer construction method used for the Coleman Lantern. Its roof features a Lauan interior panel, wood framing, fiberglass insulation, 3/8-inch decking, and an EPDM (synthetic rubber membrane) top layer.

Standard amenities in the Coleman Lantern include 28-inch entrance doors, a 13,500-BTU air conditioner, a power awning, interior 120V and 12V power outlets, an enclosed underbelly, and an exterior shower. The Coleman Lantern 285BH camping trailer also features a full kitchen with a three-burner cooktop, microwave, 10-cubic-foot fridge, and a large sink kitchen with a high-rise faucet.

Forest River No Boundaries 20.3 (Unplugged Package) : $50,000

• Base weight: 5,306 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 734 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,734 lbs. 
• Overall length: 26 ft., 2 in.
• Exterior height: 11 ft., 3 in.
• Freshwater tank: 40 gals.
• Gray water tank: 40 gals. 
• Black water tank: 30 gals.

Forest River offers more than a dozen different RV brands and configurations ranging from motorhomes, toy haulers, fifth-wheel trailers, travel trailers, and pop-up tent trailers in all shapes and sizes. One of our favorites is the Forest River No Boundaries line of travel trailers that are perfect for half-ton pickups.

The Forest River No Boundaries travel trailers are rugged towables, ranging in length from 12 to 25 feet, designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind. They offer adaptable storage solutions for bikes , kayaks, SUPs , surfboards, skis, and fishing equipment.

Helping transport you deeper into the wild with higher than typical ground clearance, larger-diameter tires, and a nimble suspension system, the Forest River No Boundaries allows you to set up camp in locations others would find inaccessible.

Our choice would be the Forest River No Boundaries 20.3 Unplugged Package travel trailer. Like all the No Boundaries trailers, 20.3 offers familiar standard equipment and a host of useful options to choose from. The UnPlugged Package model adds four lithium-ion batteries, a digital control screen, remote A/C control, and a heavy-duty solar panel.

Interior living amenities include a sofa and 60×80-inch Murphy bed up front, slide-out with a convertible dinette and well-equipped kitchen mid-ship, 52×74-inch bunk beds, and a bathroom with shower stall in the rear of the trailer. Available options start with a 13.5K-BTU AC unit, 5,500-BTU heat strip, power tongue jack, and a batwing awning .

inTech RV O-V-R Adventure : $61,880

• Base weight: 5,700 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 1,100 lbs.
• GVWR: 8,500 lbs.
• Overall length: 29 ft., 3 in.
• Exterior width: 8 ft., 3 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 6 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 11 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 6
• Freshwater tank: 44 gals.
• Gray water tank: 39 gals. 
• Black water tank: 26 gals.

The inTech O-V-R Adventure travel trailer is what the RV industry refers to as a tow hauler. It does a great job of carrying motorcycles or UTVs and at the same time providing its inhabitants with comfortable and modern creature comforts and amenities.

A lightweight but sturdy all-aluminum frame and body supported by a torsion axle suspension team up to help better manage irregular road surfaces on the way to your outdoor adventure destination.

The versatile interior design utilizes every inch of the space inside the inTech O-V-R Adventure trailer. The voluminous trailer box has a cargo hold length of 13 feet, 3 inches, but can easily be converted from toy hauling duty to living, dining, and sleeping space in a matter of minutes. The well-equipped modern kitchen, wet bath (enclosed shower stall with a porcelain toilet), and large (60×80-inch memory foam queen) front bedroom are static.

Standard equipment for the O-V-R Adventure trailer includes a power tongue jack, 25K-BTU furnace heater, 15K-BTU ducted air conditioning system, and a heated underbelly with line heaters and tank heat pads. The ramp door is 7 feet, 1 inch wide and 6 feet, 7 inches high.

Available options are few because it's already loaded. However, a pair of 75-inch foldup couch/beds for the interior dinette, an 18-foot power awning with wind protection that auto retracts, and an Off-Grid Package that includes a 400W solar power system with a 2,000W inverter perfectly round out the inTech O-V-R Adventure toy hauler trailer.

Jayco Jay Feather 26RL : $52,275

• Base weight: 6,115 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 690 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,500 lbs.
• Overall length: 31 ft., 11 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 8 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 6 in.
• Freshwater tank: 55 gals.
• Gray water tank: 31 gals. 
• Black water tank: 31 gals.

The Jayco Jay Feather 26RL travel trailer is a perfect fit for a Toyota Tundra or any of the half-ton pickup trucks available today. The Jay Feather 26RL was designed to offer a large open space in the rear of the trailer with a wide pull-out holding a convertible dinette, a big fridge, and a pantry closet.

Opposite the 26RL trailer's pull-out is a full kitchen with an L-shaped counter and overhead cabinets, a dual sink, a three-burner stove, and a microwave. An entertainment center and LED TV are integrated into the kitchen area and can be seen from the dinette or from the theater seats (optional) along the back wall.

A 60×75-inch queen bed and plenty of storage space make up the roomy front primary bedroom that can be accessed from inside the Jay Feather 26RL trailer or from the outside through a second door. The bathroom in between the front bedroom and main living area is generously sized with an enclosed shower, a separate flush toilet, and a large sink.

Standard equipment includes desirables like a 35K-BTU furnace heater, a 15K-BTU A/C, an 8-cubic-foot fridge, ball-bearing drawer guides, residential-style kitchen countertops, and a 20-foot awning.

Jayco's Jay Feather 26RL travel trailer is built on an I-beam main frame with an integrated A-frame structure for strength and durability. The trailer body is made up of a welded-aluminum-framed, vacuum-bonded laminated side. Its rear walls have a fiberglass exterior siding that is lightweight yet sturdy and well-insulated.

The floor is a 2-inch vacuum-bonded panel with foam insulation, and the waterproof and insulated roof is based on trussed wood (2×2-inch studs) and plywood construction that offers high weight-bearing performance.

Lance Camper 2445 : $89,024

• Base weight: 6,605 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 605 lbs.
• GVWR: 8,700 lbs.
• Overall length: 29 ft., 10 in.
• Exterior width: 8 ft., 3/8 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 5 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 8 in.
• LPG capacity: 20-lb. tank
• Freshwater tank: 45 gals.
• Black water tank: 40 gals.

The Lance 2445 travel trailer is another great match for a half-ton pickup such as the GMC Sierra 1500 . If the name Lance Camper sounds familiar, it should. Lance has been building one of the RV industry's best slide-in truck campers and continues to do so. A few years ago, Lance also began building a full line of high-end travel trailers with the same attention to detail and quality that made its truck camper a bestseller.

Part of a 12-model line of Lance travel trailers running from just under 15 feet to nearly 30 feet in length, the Lance 2445 travel trailer offers a primary bedroom up front with Lance's SkyView dual-pane radius windows, a slide-out carrying a convertible dinette, and bunk beds in the tail end.

Built upon an aluminum frame, the Lance 2445 travel trailer's construction features high-density foam block insulation, dual-layer Adzel composite (no wood) panel, and a crowned roof topped with a synthetic membrane.

Standard interior features of the Lance 2445 travel trailer include an enclosed glass shower stall and porcelain toilet. The kitchen offers a 21-inch oven, three-burner range, microwave, 6-cubic-foot fridge, and undermounted residential-style sink.

Electrical equipment includes ducted A/C, a heater, exterior solar quick connect (SAE port), systems monitor panel, and USB, 120V, and 12V power ports. Among your choice of options for the Lance 2445 travel trailer are a 1,500W inverter, a 190W solar panel, and Lance's own easy-loading roof rack. The optional shock absorber package can make dirt roads easier to manage on the way to find some adventure.

Opus Camper OP15 : $65,000

• Base weight: 5,159 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 410 lbs.
• GVWR: 6,393 lbs.
• Overall (closed) length: 23 ft.
• Exterior width: 7 ft.
• Exterior height (roof closed): 8 ft., 10 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 5 in. (open) / 5 ft., 5 in. (closed)
• Freshwater tank: 63 gals.
• Gray water tank: 17 gals. 
• Black water tank: 10 gals.

Called an off-road hybrid caravan by its builder, the Opus Camper OP15 is a serious overlanding machine designed for those outdoor enthusiasts who like getting far away from it all while having all the comforts and amenities of home. Newly reengineered for severe off-road environments, the independent trailing arm suspension system underneath the bomb-shelter-sturdy Opus OP15 trailer's cabin features dual shock absorbers and larger springs repositioned for improved performance.

The interior of the Opus Camper OP15 trailer increases in size dramatically once it’s parked and the pop-top roof and rear slide-out are extended. Inside the OP15 you'll find a king-size bed, bunk beds, a dining lounge with plush seating and an adjustable table, plenty of storage space, and a full bathroom with shower, sink, and flush toilet.

The OP15 trailer's outdoor slide-out kitchen delivers a stainless-steel sink, a four-burner stainless steel stove, and a food-prep deck. A second outdoor slide-out carries a 12V fridge/freezer combo.

The Opus Camper OP15 scores more off-road points with its 360-degree articulating trailer hitch and large all-terrain tires (including two spares). A fully galvanized welded chassis and drawbar, stone guard, heavy-duty safety chains, and electric brakes are standard equipment.

Fully loaded for off-grid adventure the OP 15 also offers three 100A AGM batteries, a 300W solar panel setup, and utility storage for two 6-gallon fuel cans as standard. You can boost that capability with options such as a DC charger, or lithium batteries and an upgraded charger.

Outdoors RV Back Country Series 24KRS : $80,060

• Base weight: 7,430 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 965 lbs.
• GVWR: 9,995 lbs.
• Overall length: 28 ft., 8 in.
• Exterior height: 11 ft., 6 in.
• LPG capacity: 80 lbs.
• Freshwater tank: 100 gals.
• Gray water tank: 80 gals. 

One of the heavier examples in this buyer's guide of travel trailers well suited for half-ton pickup trucks is the Outdoors RV Back Country 24KRS. The Back Country 24HRS was designed for the outdoor enthusiast who is more likely to camp off-grid and off-road.

Stocked with standard features such as a 36K on-board LPG-powered generator, a 170W solar panel with controller, and 100 gallons of freshwater capacity, the Outdoors RV Back Country 24KRS is capable of sustaining itself and its inhabitants for much more than just a 3-day weekend getaway.

Noted by its builder as designed for "mountain states and western Canada," the Backcountry 24KRS is delivered with equipment that are options on many other travel trailers. Thermal pane windows, triple-layered roof insulation, insulated slide-out floor, insulated exterior luggage doors, and a fully enclosed, insulated, and heated underbelly make it a good choice for winter or shoulder-season camping. Off-road chops include an integrated A-frame chassis with a heavy-duty off-road suspension and beefy six-lug 5,000-pound-capacity axles.

The Outdoors RV Back Country 24KRS travel trailer's ability to handle tough roads and long trips is countered with a host of upscale appointments and creature comforts to make the adventure easy to enjoy. A large bathroom is filled with a sink, flush toilet, and roomy shower stall. The kitchen offers a three-burner stove/oven, a large stainless-steel sink with a high-arch faucet, a microwave oven, a huge fridge, and lots of prep space.

Between the 60×80-inch primary bed, a convertible dinette, and a sleeper sofa, there's room to sleep up to six. And the interior is built out in sturdy and attractive cabinetry that offers enough storage space for all your gear.

TAXA Outdoors Mantis 5.2 Overland : $57,874

• Base weight: 3,486 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 510 lbs.
• Overall length: 19 ft.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 6in.
• Exterior height: 7 ft. (closed) / 10 ft., 1 in. (open)
• Interior height: 4 ft., 7 in. (closed) / Up to 7 ft., 10 in. (open) 
• Freshwater tank: 20 gals.
• Gray water tank: 22 gals.

The TAXA Outdoors Mantis 5.2 Overland trailer is an admittedly nontraditional travel trailer. Its unique nature is part of what makes it a good choice for half-ton pickup trucks like the Nissan Titan . It may look a bit like a giant insect, but the Mantis 5.2 Overland camping trailer has everything you need to enjoy a comfortable middle-of-nowhere experience.

Based on the TAXA Mantis 5.2 (the company's largest floorplan), the Overland edition retains all of the original’s creature comforts and conveniences while inheriting a higher level of off-grid and long-term camping capability.

The Mantis 5.2 Overland travel trailer is loaded with a fully equipped kitchen, a combo furnace heater/hot water system, storage compartments everywhere, and comfortable sleeping accommodations for four people. An optional pop-up rooftop tent can sleep two more.

TAXA Outdoors added some serious rough-road handling features like a 360-degree rotation/three-axis hitch for optimum trailer control on or off-road. The Mantis 5.2 Overland trailer rides on a powder-coated steel chassis with a 5,200-pound-rated Timbren axle-less suspension system and a 4-inch body lift. This setup gives the trailer 14 inches of ground clearance, perfect for off-road camping adventures.

A mix of aluminum composite panels, Baltic Birch plywood, and an aluminum and steel structural skeleton make up the atypical shape of the TAXA Mantis 5.2 Overland travel trailer. On the long list of available features are handy items like acrylic windows with screens and shades, batwing-style awnings, and exterior hot and cold showers. An integrated 12V electrical system, wet bath with cassette toilet, and 8K-BTU A/C make long trips even more comfortable.

Venture RV Sonic X SN220VRBX : $51,354

• Base weight: 5,610 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 570 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,285 lbs.
• Overall length: 27 ft., 6 in.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 6 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 4 in.
• Freshwater tank: 78 gals.
• Gray water tank: 30 gals.

Venture RV currently builds six different travel trailer lines, each offering its own design and engineering flavor. Dozens of Venture RV trailers ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 pounds (base weight) are ideal for a half-ton pickup like the Ford F-150.

Our favorite Venture RV line is the Sonic X, of which there are two floorplans. We will focus on the Sonix X SN220VRBX travel trailer with its large rear-bathroom floorplan.

The Venture RV Sonic X SN220VRBX travel trailer and its SN211VDBX (rear bunk bed plan) cousin are the same length and nearly the same weight. Both feature a high-clearance off-road-capable NXG chassis and two 3,500-pound capacity torsion axles, making it easier to get the Sonic X trailer into campsites others can't reach.

Go-anywhere standard equipment for the Sonix X trailers includes a tubular brush guard, welded tube bumper, roof-mounted LED lightbars, and off-road tires. Designed to be self-sustainable for long periods of time, the Sonix X trailers offer extended off-grid adventure with standard equipment like two 190W roof-mounted solar panels, two 250A lithium-ion batteries, and a 2,000W inverter/charger.

The floorplan of the Venture Sonix X SN220VRBX travel trailer is laid out with a 60×75-inch primary bed (or with a Murphy bed with sofa) up front. The center section of the trailer carries a slide-out holding an 88×47-inch convertible dinette directly across from a well-stocked kitchen that offers a large sink, three-burner stove, oven, and a 7-cubic-foot refrigerator .

The rear section of the SN220VRBX trailer houses a bathroom with a flush toilet, a large sink, and a 34-inch glass radius enclosed shower. A large exterior-accessed storage garage compartment for outdoor gear is standard on both Sonix X trailers.

How Much Can a Half-Ton Truck Tow?

How much trailer can a half-ton truck - F-150, Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, RAM 1500, Tundra, and Titan - tow ?

As an example, tow ratings for the bestselling Ford F-150 can range from 5,000 to 14,000 pounds. This depends upon cab configuration, truck bed size, 2WD or 4WD, engine size, and the final drive ratios (ring-and-pinion gear set ratios).

In addition, some high ratings require additional payload or towing packages. All these aspects combine to establish a pickup truck's maximum tow rating - also referred to as the maximum trailer weight rating.   

The bestselling Ford F-150 cab configuration (according to 2022 model sales) is the SuperCrew. We'll use that as a starting point. The 2023 Ford F-150 SuperCrew short bed 2WD with a 3.3L V-6 engine and 3.55-ratio axle gears is rated at 5,100 pounds.

On the other end of the scale is the 2023 Ford F-150 SuperCrew short bed 2WD with a 3.5L turbocharged V-6 engine, 3.55 axle gears, and optional payload package scores a 14,000-pound tow rating.

Detailed tow ratings are listed in your truck's owner's manual. Tow ratings for some older trucks can be found on RV.com . The Ford Motor Company website also offers a Towing Guide to help find your truck's maximum trailer weight rating. 

Travel Trailer Terminology You Should Know

There are a few terms that trailer manufacturers use in their specification charts that you should know and understand.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum permissible weight for a trailer, including all cargo, fluids, LPG, and optional equipment.

Unladen, Dry, Tare, or Base Weight: These all mean the same thing - the total weight of the unloaded trailer in standard equipment trim, with no cargo, fluids (freshwater), or LPG.

Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): Sometimes referred to as Rated Cargo Load, this is the maximum amount of cargo weight the trailer can safely hold. This includes everything you load into the trailer, full water tanks, filled propane tanks, and batteries.

Tongue or Hitch Weight: The weight the trailer will place upon the hitch of your truck. More than 500 pounds of tongue weight on a half-ton pickup will likely place undue stress on the rear suspension and unload the front end, adversely affecting the truck's steering and overall handling. In this case, the use of a weight-distributing hitch can redeploy some of the weight from the hitch back to the trailer's axle(s).

Overall or Exterior Length: Commonly refers to the length of the trailer from the hitch ball-coupler to the back of the rear bumper.

Towing Safety 101: What to Know Before You Tow

Planning on towing a trailer of any type? Here's what you need to know before you tow. Read more…

The Best Electric Vehicles for Towing

An EV may be your next tow vehicle, and the options just keep getting better. These are the best electric vehicles for towing in 2023. Read more…

The 16 Best SUVs for Towing in 2023

Read this article first before shopping for a tow vehicle. We outline the best SUVs for towing to help you with your research. Read more…

The post 10 Perfect Travel Trailers to Tow With Your Half-Ton Truck appeared first on GearJunkie .

New 2024 KZ SPORTSMEN CLASSIC 160RBT

• Philadelphia,PA
• Stock # GPKS3

Specifications

• Ext Width 84
• Ext Height 107
• Int Height 78
• Hitch Weight 330
• Fresh Water Capacity 20
• Grey Water Capacity 26
• Black Water Capacity 26
• Tire Size 15
• Furnace BTU 20,000
• Axle Count 1
• Available Beds Two Full Tent End Beds
• Refrigerator Type 12V
• Refrigerator Size 8
• Cooktop Burners 2
• Shower Type Neo-Angled
• Number of Awnings 1
• Dry Weight 2,850
• Cargo Weight 650

Description

Photo gallery.

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