/ / Campers Under 2000 lbs: Top 8 Picks You Can Buy For Traveling In 2024

Campers Under 2000 lbs: Top 8 Picks You Can Buy For Traveling In 2024

Hitting the roads having campers under 2000 lbs offers better maneuverability and fuel economy. That is why many modern manufacturers offer a diverse range of campers in this weight category. However, how to choose a house in tow that checks all the boxes including comfort, features, and affordability? This is where I come in.

I’m Ricky Small, a motorhome professional, and I will help you make the right choice. So stick around until the end to learn about the 8 exceptional trailers made by some of the top manufacturers like Taxa, Scamp, and Timberleaf. Let’s begin and find a camper of your dreams!

Quick Answer

Quickly put, I want to share with you that when it comes to campers under 2000 lbs, they boast the following perks compared to a bigger or cargo trailer:

  1. They are light in weight and can be towed with most vehicles such as mid-size SUVs or minivans;
  2. Due to their aerodynamic design, they offer better fuel efficiency;
  3. They are often budget-friendly which makes them more accessible to budget-conscious campers.

However, you need to understand that all lightweight campers are not the same. Continue reading to learn about which camper will provide you with the most comfort and which one will be best for offroading. Moreover, I will share the unheard weight management tips so you will never have problems in towing. Let’s dive deep into the details.

“When choosing an adventure vehicle, sometimes less is more. Modern engineers are now developing trailers with advanced composite materials and improved aerodynamics. Offering added mobility and reduced vehicle strain, lighter trailers are quickly becoming popular options in the camping world.”Taxa Outdoors, A Popular Motorhome Manufacturer

Comparison Table of the Top 8 Campers Under 2000 lbs

The following table compares the salient features of the campers under 2000 pounds:

Camper Name

Exterior Dimensions WxLxH (feet)

Weight (lbs)

Taxa TigerMoth

6.7 x 12.10 x 6.8

1,310 

Scamp 13' Standard

6.8 x 13 x 7.6

1,500 

Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer

13.5 x 7.8

1,100 

inTech Flyer Pursue

6.11 x 13.9 x 6

1,195 - 1,690 

Timberleaf Trailers, Inc. Kestrel

6.4 x 11.6 x 5.4

860 

Forest River Viking 1706XLS

7 x 17.11 x 4.8

1,642 

Riverside RV Retro 511

7.3 x 12.8 x 8.1

1,780 

Safari Condo Alto R1723

6.91 x 17.25 x 7.46

 1,991 

After a quick comparison, let’s deep dive into the detailed review of the campers:

1. Overall Best Camper: Taxa TigerMoth

The TigerMoth trailer is a capable camper for off-road adventures, thanks to its durable aluminum exterior and rugged tires. Despite its small size, at 13 by 7 feet, it can comfortably accommodate 2 adults. The cozy interior features quality fabrics, and a slide-out kitchen with 2 portable burners. On top of that, a few thoughtful touches like a 5000 BTU A/C unit and an 18 by 21-inch coffee table add to the overall value.

Pros and Cons

Let me present you the pros and cons of the camper: 

Pros
  • The camper comes with a THULE 175 ProBar where you can fit accessories like travel bags, or carriers during camping. 
  • It is a lightweight camper (1310 lbs) and any SUV, pickup truck, or even a minivan like a Toyota Sienna can easily tow it.
  • With this camper, you get a Torsion Axle Suspension that uses rubber cords to cushion the trailer during off-road travel.
  • Numerous TigerMoth accessories such as a 6-inch mosquito awning or mesh screen for doors enhance your overall camping experience.
Cons
  • The roof is made of aluminum without any proofing and can be noisy when it rains.
  • The build quality of the awning could be better.

Floor Plan

The inside space of TigerMoth is cleverly managed. With a 5 by 5 feet interior, it provides a compact surface area. At the back, you get an 80 by 54 inches large bed on the right side. On the left, there is a pull-out seat (sofa cum bed). In the front of the seat, there a 12 cubic feet of multipurpose storage space. The rear side also houses a gallery kitchen, which can be slide-out before dining al fresco. 

Taxa_TigerMoth_plan
Credit: taxaoutdoors.com

Specs 

I have listed the specs of the TigerMoth below:

Taxa TigerMoth

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

6.7 x 12.10 x 6.8 feet

Interior (WxH):

4.7 x 3.9 feet

Dry Weight:

1,310 lbs

Tire size:

235/75R15

Ground clearance:

15 inches

Tongue jack:

2,000 lbs

Living capacity:

2 adults + (3 with an optional rooftop tent)

Water tank:

Yes, 5 gallons

Shower:

No

Kitchen:

Yes, exterior kitchen complete

Let’s have a look at the visual review of Taxa TigerMoth:

2. Best for 4 Persons: Scamp 13′ Standard

Scamp 13-foot is a versatile camper featuring a durable fiberglass body that’s not only lightweight but easy to maintain. Inside, the interior provides homey comforts for up to 4 happy campers. You can whip up meals on the 2-burner propane stove. Not to mention small yet necessary features like an 8-foot awning, a 12-volt water pump, and a 19,000 furnace. These things enhance the overall value. 

Pros and Cons

Allow me to present the pros and cons of the camper:

Pros
  • The camper fulfills your energy requirements with 1 propane gas cylinder and 1 battery, located in the front hitch.
  • The 4 rear stabilizer jacks provide lateral and vertical support to keep the vehicle level during parking.
  • You get a 30 amp 25 feet electric supply cord so that you can connect the camper with any off-shore energy source. 
  • The interior of the cabinet is insulated with wood to provide proofing against road noise.
Cons
  • The refrigerator capacity may not be enough for some campers which is only 1.9 cubic.
  • You may encounter some annoying problems such as loose door hinges or defective door latches. 

Floor Plan

With a 66 by 66-foot interior, Scramp 13 feet is thoughtfully designed to create a flexible home-away-from-home. The front 2 sofas can easily convert to a roomy bed for 2 persons. Further back, a 54-inch dinette folds down to sleep an additional 2 guests. The right side houses the kitchen area. Here you have a refrigerator, sink, 2-burner stove, and a cabinet. You also get plenty of storage options both on the walls and on the roof. Lastly, there is also a table between convertible sofas, that can be used to eat meals or work.

Scamp 13′_Standard_plan
Credit: scamptrailers.com

Specs 

Now I will list the specs of the Scamp 13′:

Scamp 13' Standard

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

6.8 x 13 x 7.6 feet

Interior (WxH):

6.6 x 10 x 6.3 feet

Dry Weight:

1500 lbs 

Tire size:

13 inches

Ground clearance:

11 inches

Tongue jack:

200 lb Manual

Living capacity:

2-4 people

Water tank:

12 gallons

Shower:

No

Kitchen:

2 burner propane stove, sink, refrigerator

Watch the visual review of Scamp 13′ Standard here:

3. Best Camper With Adaptive Design: Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer

The Camper HC1 is a retro-chic camping trailer that fuses throwback style with adaptability. My favorite feature is the one-of-a-kind Adaptive interior. The inside has modular furniture that you can set in any format as per your likeness. Moreover, the frame is rigged as it is made of a 100% fiberglass shell that offers weather-tough durability. On top of that, you get enough storage space with its overall 13.5 feet length and 7.8 feet height. 

Pros and Cons

Let’s discuss the positives and downsides of this trailer:

Pros
  • There is a large rear hatch as well as a panoramic window that gives easy access and a great view of the surroundings.
  • It has special plugs that can be paired with any solar panel, making the RV a solar-ready home.
  • You get a vast 42 sf. floor storage that is quite good for rooming or storing goods in the camper freely. 
  • It comes with a rear hatch door that lets you load and unload bulky items without hassle.
Cons
  • With this model, you may miss features like a portable water tank or shower.
  • Due to a lack of insulation, the model may not be fit for winter or cold weather. 

Floor Plan

Like a life-size puzzle, the HC1’s adaptable floor plan clicks together however you choose. Spanning 6.11 by 6.1 feet, the interior features a grid of 15 cubbies (modular spaces to keep furniture. You can place a table, stove, or just comfy modules to give it a bed-like shape. Thanks to clever management of space, up to 5 people can sleep with the convertible furniture pieces. 

Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer plan (1)
Credit: happiercamper.com

Specs 

Let me share the specs of the HC1 Travel Trailer with you:

Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

7 x 13.5 x 7.8 feet

Interior (WxH):

10 x 6.6 x 6.1 feet

Dry Weight:

1100 lbs

Tire size:

13 inches

Ground clearance:

14 inches

Tongue jack:

110 - 150 lbs. Swivel with wheel

Living capacity:

Sleeps up to a family of five

Water tank:

None

Shower:

None

Kitchen:

Modular kitchenette

Watch the detailed review of Happier Camper HC1 Travel Trailer:

4. Best Compact Camper: inTech Flyer Pursue

Do you need a spacious and open feeling? The compact yet rugged inTech trailer is ready to hit the road or trail with you. Weighing around 1,195 – 1,690 lbs, this lightweight camper can handle off-road fun while accommodating up to 2 people. You can either power up its 30 Amp converter or rely on solar energy. Moreover, you can store food easily in the spacious 45-quart 12V refrigerator as well as whip up meals on the 2-burner stove. Bikes or extra gears can be hauled using the rear 2-inch receiver. 

Pros and Cons

I have analyzed and compiled the pros and cons of the camper below:

Pros
  • The Bubble Foil insulation on the wall and floor provides protection from tough weather.
  • There is plenty of storage room in the camper; 1 cabinet is in the front wall and 3 storage nets are also available.
  • You can enjoy your favorite tunes with the built-in 2 Bluetooth stereo speakers. 
  • You can make the interior aesthetically pleasant with the help of built-in 2 LED Dome lights that come with an intensity adjustment option.
Cons
  • The button that is used to pull out the kitchen is of low quality and can be broken quickly.
  • The roof HVAC can be noisy for sensitive people and needs to be serviced more often. 

Floor Plan

The single-room Flyer Pursue measures a cozy 13.9 feet long by 6.11 feet wide, with 6-foot ceilings height. The rear converts from a 59-inch wide double bed to a sofa, situated below a storage cabinet. On the front wall, a 4-foot slide-out kitchen includes a counter, a 2-burner stove, a 45-quart refrigerator, and a lower cabinet.

inTech Flyer Pursue plan
Credit: intech.com

Specs 

Allow me to discuss the specs of inTech Pursue below:

inTech Flyer Pursue

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

6.11 x 13.9 x 6 feet

Interior (WxH):

4.11 x 8.1 x 3.9 feet

Dry Weight:

1195 - 1690 lbs

Tire size:

ST205/75R15

Ground clearance:

11 1/2"

Tongue jack:

Manual (240 - 395 lbs)

Living capacity:

2 people

Water tank:

8.5 gallon (Optional)

Shower:

None

Kitchen:

Slideout, with two-burner stove

Watch inTech Flyer Pursue visual review here:

5. Best Budget-friendly Camper: Timberleaf Trailers, Inc. Kestrel

Weighing only 860 pounds, the Kestrel camper fiberglass beauty can be towed by almost any vehicle for effortless transport to your favorite campsites. The best thing about the camper is the comfort. Its versatile and customizable layout sleeps up to 5 people. The Kestrel also brings reliable off-grid comforts like weather-resistant construction, insulation, and solar power options. Lastly, you get to pick the best option with 3 variants Standard, All-Road, and Off-Road. 

Pros and Cons

I have enlisted the pros and cons of the camper below:

Pros
  • It features 4 openings for easy access to natural light, and 1 roof vent to keep the air fresh and cool.
  • With its teardrop design, you can easily take it onto the highway or even for an offroading trip.
  • The camper is built on a 2-inch by a 3-inch 11-gauge steel frame, which can easily handle wear and tear.
  • There is a 2-inch ball coupler that offers a 360-degree rotation of a trailer-to-tow vehicle connection.
Cons
  • This model has comparatively 10% less space than the Pika variant. 
  • The camper lacks a rear hatch, galley, built-in power, or skylight which can be a no for some users. 

Floor Plan

The ingeniously designed 54 by 90-inch Kestrel gives a classic touch to the camper. Unlike the other models, it doesn’t have any aisle space. The interior has a 2-seater 54 by 75 inches bed with 4 pillows. The back also has a small sheet where you can place your books or other belongings. Lastly, the base of the camper has a storage box that houses a 75-amp AGM battery to fulfill the energy requirements. 

Specs 

Let me present you the specs of the Timberleaf Trailer:

Timberleaf Trailers, Inc. Kestrel

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

6.4 x 11.6 x 5.4 feet 

Interior (WxH):

4.5 x 5.25 x 3.6 feet

Dry Weight:

860 lbs

Tire size:

205/75r15 trailer tires

Ground clearance:

10.75 inches

Tongue jack:

Manual (90 lbs)

Living capacity:

2 people

Water tank:

No

Shower:

No

Kitchen:

No

Here is the visual review of Kestrel:

6. Best Camper With 3 Beds: Forest River Viking 1706XLS

The Viking 1706XLS folding trailer is one of the versatile pop-up campers for a small family. Weighing just 1,642 lbs dry with a 2,897 lbs max capacity, it tucks easily behind most SUVs and trucks. Yet inside it feels downright roomy thanks to two convertible double beds and a dinette-turned-bed. And amenities like exterior LED lights, a 30 amp power converter, and a 12-volt water pump will keep you powered up and drumming on the road without any hassle.

Pros and Cons

I have jotted down the pros and cons of the trailer below:

Pros
  • You get a 13,500 BTUs air conditioner that provides enough heating and ventilation in the camper. 
  • The hinges and openings have double seals that prevent leakage or entering of the water.
  • You get reinforced bars that not only provide extra strength but also distribute the overall weight.
  • There is a 12-month structure warranty and a 5-year roof warranty for customer satisfaction.
Cons
  • The lack of a grey or black water tank means you have to dispose of the wastewater manually.
  • The capacity of a refrigerator is only 1.7 cubic feet which is too small, compared to other compact campers.  

Floor Plan

With interior dimensions of 7 ft by 6.8 ft, the 1706XLS efficiently utilizes its space. At the front and rear are two 48-inch glide-n-lock beds that fold out for sleeping. In the center lies the pedestal kitchen, equipped with a 2-burner stove, refrigerator, and cabinet for meal preparation needs.

Forest River Viking 1706XLS plan
Credit: forestriverinc.com

Specs

I have compiled the specs of the trailer below:

Forest River Viking 1706XLS

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

7 x 17.11 x 4.8 feet

Dry Weight:

1,642 lbs.

Tire size:

ST 145 R12

Tongue jack:

Heavy-duty front manual (167 lb)

Living capacity:

6 people

Water tank:

16-gallon

Shower:

No

Kitchen:

Yes, with a stove, a refrigerator, and a pedestal table

Here is a detailed review of the trailer:

7. Best Camper With a Large Awning: Riverside RV Retro 511

The compact RV Retro 511 trailer is a great choice for road-tripping couples. With a lightweight 1,780 lbs dry weight and 160 lbs hitch weight, it’s highly maneuverable. I personally like the way this camper is built. It has a strong body as well as a simple housing layout. Lastly, you get all the basic amenities like a 17-gallon fresh water tank, a 30 amp power converter, and a 12-volt water pump. 

Pros and Cons

I have tested and found the following pros and cons of the camper:

Pros
  • You can stay cool in this 12 by 7 feet compartment with the powerful and efficient 13,500 BTU A/C.
  • The camper comes with a 6-inch larger awning to provide shade or protect from the sun.
  • You can fill the camper with immersive sound from the 4 high-quality Bluetooth stereo speakers.
  • The 15-inch tires support electric drum brakes, which are quite useful during parking at sloppy places. 
Cons
  • Unlike other campers in the same price range, it lacks slideouts. This can reduce the living space inside.
  • Despite having a stove, the camper lacks built-in LP tanks or cylinders. 

Floor Plan

Spanning 12.8 feet by 7.6 feet with a 4.10-foot ceiling height, the Retro 511 efficiently utilizes space. Immediately upon entering, you see a convertible 44 in by 72 in the convertible bed across the empty aisle. The properly apportioned 40 in by 24 in kitchenette lies on the left wall featuring a 2-burner stove, sink, refrigerator, and cabinetry. The right side features a shelf and a closet. 

Riverside RV Retro 511 plan
Credit: goriversiderv.com

Specs 

I have compiled the specs of the RV Retro 511 below:

Riverside RV Retro 511

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

7.3 x 12.8 x 8.1 feet

Dry Weight:

1780 pounds

Tire size:

15 inch

Tongue jack:

Front Manual

Living capacity:

2 people

Water tank:

17-gallon

Shower:

Outdoor shower

Kitchen:

Yes, countertop kitchen (includes refrigerator, sink, stove, and microwave)

Here is a detailed review of 2021 Riverside Retro 511:

8. Best Premium Camper: Safari Condo Alto R1723 

The Safari Condo Alto R1723 reimagines travel trailers with its eye-catching leather finish and layout management. Despite being a small trailer, you get enough flour area to walk, thanks to the well-planned 17.25 feet length. Moreover, a convertible king-size bed can make 27 by 76 inches two beds, to manage more persons. Another distinctive trait of this RV is that you can set up 2 dining areas (one with 5 seats). A fully functioning kitchenette and dedicated toilet/shower compartment provide everyday amenities.

Pros and Cons

Let me present you the pros and cons of the camper:

Pros
  • The trailer has a low center of gravity, which makes it easy to tow with almost any vehicle.
  • It has a retractable roof that you can raise to 18 inches to increase the interior space. 
  • You get enough fresh (100 L), grey (92 L) as well as black water (54 L) tanks to manage the drinkable and wastewater. 
  • The energy requirements are met with a 100-amp lithium battery, coupled with a 45-amp charger.
Cons
  • Compared to other campers that are under $20 grand, it costs around a whooping $38k+ which could be a big no for the buyers.
  • To get this vehicle, you have to join 2 years of the waiting list, which may not suit every traveler. 

Floor Plan

The R1723 houses a convertible 60 in by 76 in a king bed with overhead cabinetry and a window that can split into two twins. Up front, the transformable 36 in by 81 in dinette has a pedestal table and storage cabinet beneath the bench seating. The 40 in by 24 in kitchenette occupies the right wall sporting a 2-burner stove, sink, refrigerator, and cabinet.  

Safari Condo Alto R1723 plan
Credit: www.safaricondo.com

Specs 

I have listed the specs of the Alto R1723 below:

Safari Condo Alto R1723 

Specification

Exterior (WxLxH):

6.91 x 17.25 x 7.46 feet

Interior (H):

5.3 feet

Dry Weight:

1991 lbs

Tire size:

15 inches

Ground clearance:

-

Tongue jack:

Manual

Living capacity:

3-4 people

Water tank:

100 liters

Shower:

Internal

Kitchen:

Pull-out kitchenette with a sink, 2-burner stove, 2-way fridge

Watch the video review of the Safari Condo Alto R1723 Teardrop trailer here.

4 Important Considerations While Buying Trailers Under 2000 lbs

Now that we have learned about some of the best campers, it’s time to address crucial factors before making a buying decision. Allow me to share 4 important factors with you:

1. Explore Different Types

While buying a camper, you need to know the difference between common types. Let me break them for you:

  1. Teardrop trailers: These are lightweight and small, resembling a teardrop. They mostly have a sleeping place of 2 and a pull-out kitchen.
  2. Pop-up camper: They can be unfolded to increase the area. They are collapsible and have a space for four people.
  3. A-frame trailers: These trailers are triangular and can manage up to 4 – 6 people. They can fold down into a flat shape for easy towing and storage.

2. Weight Management

Usually, 2000 lb trailers are meant to tow with common SUVs or sedans. And these vehicles are not meant to pull heavy weight. Therefore, you should be aware of the weight that you can carry on top of the dry weight of the camper. The gross weight from the camper’s manual can give you an idea of this thing.

It is suggested that the carry-out weight of goods should not exceed 25% of the dry weight. For example, if the weight of the trailer is 2000 lbs., the total weight of the goods should not exceed 500 – 700 lbs. Example:

Gross weight 2700 lbs = 2000 lbs of Dry weight + 700 lbs Weight of goods

3. Facilities

The campers under 2,000 lbs come with many useful features like kitchens, storage space, and lighting. However, these trailers also compromise on some features, because of their budget-friendly and compact nature. Hence, you may skip on components like:

  1. Fridge;
  2. Wet bath area;
  3. Air conditioning;
  4. Entertainment options like stereo speakers or TV.

Therefore, you need to research your model, before buying one. Carefully weigh out the facilities that you need. For example, if you are going to camp in a cold place, you can ditch the air conditioning.

4. Terrain Compatibility

Camper often needs to go off-terrain, on gravel paths, or on steep slopes. Therefore, you need to buy a model that can easily handle these rough ways. Look for the following features in your trailer:

  1. Off-road suspension;
  2. Ground clearance;
  3. Skid plates;
  4. Reinforced plates.

FAQs

How Heavy is a 2000-pound Camper?

A 2000-pound camper has a dry weight of 2000 pounds or less. This doesn’t include any weight of water, propane, or cargo. This camper can even be towed with smaller vehicles such as minivans or sedans.

Is a Camper Under 2000 Pounds Suitable for a Family of 4?

Yes, a camper under 2000 pounds is suitable for a family of 4. However, this may create some problems as these campers have a constrained space. Safari Condo Alto R1723 is a model that can manage 4 people.

How Much Does a Camper Weighing Less than 2,000 Pounds Cost?

A camper weighing less than 2,000 pounds can cost somewhere between $8000 – $40,000. This cost can also vary depending on the additional features, like an awning, receiver, tanks, kitchen, or washroom.

Are There Showers in a Camper Weighing Less than 2,000 Pounds?

Yes, there are showers in a camper weighing less than 2000 pounds. For example, Safari Condo Alto R1723 has an internal shower. However, some budget-friendly models like Taxa TigerMoth don’t have any showers.

Conclusion

Summing up, the best campers under 2000 lbs are the ones that are lightweight and can be towed with any 4×4 or even a minivan. They are also budget-friendly as you can buy a well-equipped trailer for under $15,000 -$20000. Plus, they cover all the basic camping needs like a mini kitchen, fridge, bed, and storage. Moreover, these campers provide better fuel efficiency as you get up to 16 mpg due to their aerodynamic shape.

Among lightweight camper options, Taxa TigerMoth is a camper that I rate above all. This lightweight trailer is not only cheap but also ticks all the necessary boxes. With this camper, you get an 80 by 54 inches bed, a 5-gallon water tank, a slide kitchen, an awning, and a Torsion Axle Suspension. 

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