Lightweight travel trailers have so many advantages. They’re easier to store away, they help you save on gas, and they allow you to explore anywhere you want to. That being said, as there are so many travel trailers on the market, it can get confusing looking at all of the options.
If you are looking for a lightweight travel trailer, it can be hard to find ones that aren’t short on space. As these trailers are so small, they may also lack important amenities, like kitchenware, bathroom features, or closet room. Fortunately, we’re here to help!
We’ve put together a list of the 10 best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs. No matter what your reason is for purchasing one, you’re sure to find one that suits you below. Before we get into the list, we’ve also included some tips that can help you purchase the best travel trailer for your needs.
Things To Think About When Choosing A Lightweight Travel Trailer
Other than the weight, you’ll want to consider some other points before you go ahead and buy a travel trailer. Here are some things to think about beforehand:
The number of people traveling in the RV. A family of four is going to need more space than a couple would. Similarly, younger or hyperactive children may become irritated in smaller spaces, particularly if you’re going to be on the road for some time.
Where you’ll be traveling. Most trailers will be fine in local campgrounds and national parks, but you may need different tires if you’re going to be moving across dirt roads. If you’re going to a location with limited facilities, you’ll probably want an RV that’s kitted with a decent bathroom, kitchen, and TV.
The length of time you’ll be staying. Lightweight travel trailers are going to be small, but limited space can get annoying if you’re going to be staying in your RV for a few weeks. Space-saving features and storage areas can make a trailer more comfortable to stay in.
Storage space. Large families or those with lots of luggage will need more storage space than others. Look out for areas to store clothes, linens, and cleaning supplies. Some trailers also have storage facilities attached to their exterior for bikes and outdoor gear.
Eating space. An awning can provide shade from the sun for those that prefer to eat outside. If you don’t mind eating inside, this feature may not be necessary.
Unwanted features. Think about future possibilities that may annoy you. For instance, if you like to spread out in bed, a small mattress will only frustrate you. Similarly, those that like to get dressed in a bathroom may become uncomfortable if the sink and shower are in a cramped space.
Travel trailers that are 5000 lbs and under are going to be smaller, so naturally, you’re going to have to sacrifice some space. You’re not going to find a king-size bed, wide countertops, and a bathtub in one of these. That being said, many travel trailers have impressive space-saving features that can make your stay more comfortable. Figuring out what your priorities are is the first step in selecting a trailer that you’ll be happy with.
Travel Trailer Weight Language Terms
Shopping for travel trailers can get confusing, thanks to the numerous acronyms used when selling them. Here’s a shortlist explaining what the most common terms surrounding travel trailers mean.
UVW: Unloaded Vehicle Weight
Also known as the ‘dry weight’, the UVW tells you how much an unloaded travel trailer weighs. The travel trailer should be weighed straight from the factory before any water, propane, or luggage is added. Since we’re looking for trailers that are under 5000 pounds, look out for ones with a UVW under 5000 lbs.
CCC: Cargo Carrying Capacity
The CCC is the maximum weight of goods that you are allowed to take in your trailer. This covers everything, including fuel, water, and passengers.
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
The GVWR is the highest permitted weight of your recreational vehicle. This is the Unloaded Vehicle Weight added to the Cargo Carrying Capacity.
GCWR: Gross Combined Weight Rating
The GCWR is the greatest weight permitted for your vehicle and trailer together. This weight encompasses everything in your towing vehicle, including passengers, luggage, and gear. It also includes your trailer and its contents. In most cases, the GCWR should be displayed in the vehicle owner’s manual or on your towing vehicle’s door.
Vehicles That Can Tow A Trailer Under 5000lbs
In most cases, the majority of medium to full-size trucks that have 6 cylinder engines (or greater) can handle towing 5000 lbs. Nevertheless, before you go ahead and purchase a trailer, always check to see if your vehicle can handle towing its weight.
This is especially important if you have a minivan, bigger car, or an SUV. Different trim levels, engine sizes, and towing packages can all affect the vehicle’s towing ability. The difference can be as much as a few thousand pounds.
You should be able to find your vehicle’s towing capacity in your owner’s manual. If you can’t find it, a quick internet search should help you to find the information online.
Now, without further ado, here’s our list of the top ten travel trailers under 5000 lbs!
1. KZ Sportsmen Classic Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer
This trailer is extremely lightweight compared to others, but it still has a lot to offer. It has seven floor plans to choose from, which all have a GVWR of under 5000 pounds. The dry weight varies between 2790 and 3400 pounds, but it still manages to sleep up to 5 people.
If you’re looking for a trailer for your family, the 180TH is a good option. It houses a queen bed kitted with a linen closet and bunk beds for your children. It also has pass-thru storage, which are compartments that run through the width of the trailer. These are fantastic for holding fishing poles and tools as you can simply pass them through to the other side of the RV.
Couples may prefer the 191BHK. It has a queen bed that gives each partner enough sleeping room, along with an outside kitchen area under the awning. This space is ideal for sharing dinner outside as you both enjoy your surroundings. No matter what floor plan you go for, you’ll find a roomy shower, a dinette large enough for family meals, and enough space to walk around your bed freely.
If you plan on taking your trailer off-grid, you can purchase the off-road upgrade option. This adds features like 15” mud tires, more ground clearance, and aluminum rims. These are impressive, but the classic trailer is just as spectacular, as it pleases single people, couples, and families alike.
Main Features
- Length: Maximum 23’ 2”
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 2790 – 3400 lbs
- Sleeps: Up to 5 people
- Off-Road package available
- Solar panels on the roof
2. Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108DS
Winnebago has some amazing lightweight trailers on offer, and the Micro Minnie is no exception. Out of 10 floor plans, the 2108DS is the most popular one in the Micro Minnie Line. It comes with a Murphy bed that folds up into the wall to save space. The mattress itself is around a double bed, providing ample sleeping space inside this compact trailer. The booth dinette can be folded down for more sleeping space. This is enough room for a third person, though it may fit two small children if necessary.
The bed has two wardrobe spaces on each side, along with another linen closet in the bathroom. This area contains a shower, skylight, toilet, and a medicine cabinet, so you can make yourselves at home while you’re on the road. The linen closet is large enough to hold clothes and other items, while the shower has enough room for you to move around comfortably.
You’ll find a lot of space in the center of the trailer. This spacious area has a dinette area and kitchen amenities. There is a microwave, oven, and stovetop for cooking purposes, along with a double-door fridge that can hold plenty of groceries. You can also store dried food in the pantry that lies next to the dinette. This space has an LED TV above it, which helps keep everyone entertained. The other side of the dinette has a divider curtain so that you or others can change their clothes in private.
The 2108DS also comes with another space-saving feature. A flip-up counter lies next to the sink. This provides an area to prepare food that can be tucked away when not in use. There’s also more storage space underneath the sink, which is ideal for holding cleaning supplies or utensils. This Micro Minnie model may be small, but you’ll still feel right at home when you’re traveling in it.
Main Features
- Length: 22’ 6”
- Unloaded vehicle weight: 3900lbs
- Sleeps: 3 people
- 190-watt solar panel included
- Double door refrigerator provides ample grocery space
- Comes with LED TV & exterior speakers
3. Little Guy Mini Max
At just 2,320 pounds, you’ll be amazed at what’s packed within this trailer. There are several storage nooks located all around the interior, as well as an extra storage compartment on the exterior. A dinette lies at the back which transforms into a larger bed when needed. Look straight opposite and you’ll find a TV attached to a swivel mount, so it can be tucked away when not in use.
The trailer houses a spacious wet bath that’s both deep and wide. It also has all the classic kitchen utilities, including a microwave, small refrigerator, and a stovetop with 2 burners. One of the best features is the optional stargazer window. It lets in lots of natural light during the day, while those inside can enjoy looking at the stars at night.
The Little Guy also has aluminum steps that are LED-Lit at night. This is a fantastic safety feature, and as they’re aluminum, they won’t rust as fast as steel would. The limited space inside may get claustrophobic at times, so this isn’t an ideal trailer for those with children. The interior is also 6’ in height, so this may not be ideal for those who are taller than 6 feet. However, single people or couples traveling may enjoy living in the Mini Max for a while.
If you do go for this trailer, we’d recommend getting the stargazer window. It will let lots of light in, making the interior seem roomier as a result. As it weighs so little, this is also a nice choice for those with weaker towing vehicles.
Main Features
- Length: 17’ 2”
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 2,320 lbs
- Sleeps: 2-3
- LED-Lit entry steps
- Spacious wet bath
- Optional Window lets in lots of light
4. Winnebago HIKE H172BH
Here’s another Winnebago model for you. The HIKE is loved by many adventure enthusiasts, thanks to its tough and resilient exterior. It can attach several different types of outdoor gear to its exoskeleton, such as kayaks, tents, and bikes. This trailer is designed to be used off-road, as it’s already equipped with strong fenders, offset wheels, and off-road tires.
The HIKE is available in five different floor plans which are all under 4,500 lbs. An amazing feature is that all of the floorplans have enough space for a dry bath, which is ideal for those who struggle to deal with cramped bathrooms. The HI72BH in particular has a pull-out cooktop on the trailer’s exterior. This is great for hot days where you can enjoy cooked meals in the sun.
The modern interior has classic wooden furnishings that make this trailer cozy and pleasing to live in. This model has enough room for four sleeping people. Bunk beds lie at the back with enough space for people to doze off comfortably. As you enter the trailer, you’ll notice a TV on your left. It faces opposite the spacious dinette, helping to keep people entertained while on the move.
On the whole, this is a fantastic choice for those that love traveling outdoors, but the inviting interior will please those that prefer to stay inside as well.
Main Features
- Length: 20’ 7.5”
- Sleeps: Up to 4 people
- Unloaded Weight: 3596 lbs
- Off-road tires
- Tough exoskeleton that holds outdoor gear
- Outdoor stovetop feature
5. Venture Sonic SN220VBH
This trailer may be small, but it houses enough sleeping space for six people. A double bunk, dinette space, and a queen-size Murphy bed provide a nice amount of room for traveling families.
The double bunk area has a window that lights up the whole trailer, while the queen bed space has two closets for clothing and various luggage. The bed also folds into a sofa that’s ideal for lounging on and relaxing. As you move into the slide area, you’ll find the dinette that can turn into sleeping space for two. When it’s not used at night, it seats four people, transforming it into a nice place for group dinners and activities.
A compact shower, toilet, and sink lie at the back of the trailer, creating a bathroom with enough space to fit two people. The shower’s glass doors and mirrored medicine cabinet will make you feel right at home. A little linen closet lies near the sink, which is a unique feature in such a small-scale trailer.
The kitchen has all the basic amenities, including a convection oven, microwave, and stove. The refrigerator and countertop are large, providing lots of room for food and utensils. There’s even a combined pantry and entertainment center, adding to the trailers many storage spaces.
The trailer’s exterior houses an awning that extends to 13 feet, keeping you and others cool in the shade during hotter weather. If the camper’s interior storage spaces weren’t enough, there’s also room under the trailer for larger objects and outdoor gear.
Main Features
- Length: 26’ 7”
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Unloaded Weight: 4,560 lbs
- Dinette converts into a sleeping area
- Lots of storage space including linen area and pantry
- Flip-up steps for easy entry
6. Clipper Ultra-Lite 17FQS
This compact trailer weighs just 3,325 lbs, but it still comes with everything you’ll need while you’re on the road. One of the most impressive features of the 17FQS is the large bathroom. It houses a shower, toilet, and sink, yet has enough room so that you won’t feel claustrophobic within. This trailer also has a 12’ awning on the outside, providing a shaded area to relax under during hotter days.
The trailer has a dinette that has enough room for family meals. Nevertheless, this trailer is better for individuals or couples as the bed only sleeps two people. The bed itself is a queen bed that has enough room to walk around each side. You’ll find overhead cabinets in the bathroom, above the bed, and over the stove. These have plenty of storage space for clothes, linens, and food items.
The kitchen area contains a stovetop with two burners, a sink, and a refrigerator. These are enough amenities for a short stay, but there isn’t a lot of countertop space. This isn’t a huge issue as you can chop and prepare food on the dinette, but this may be frustrating during longer stays. If you prefer, you can purchase an optional sofa that folds down to reveal a murphy bed. This option gives those traveling an extra space to relax and lounge on.
Main Features
- Length: 20’ 5”
- Sleeps: 2-3 people
- Unloaded Weight: 3,325 lbs
- Lots of Storage Cabinets
- Decent Size Awning
- Optional Sofa/Bed Slide Out Feature
7. Vintage Cruiser 23 MBS
If you like the classics, this one is for you! The Vintage Cruiser 23 MBS combines vintage style with modern trailer features. You’ll love how the light wooden interior contrasts with the blue vinyl furnishings. The best feature within the trailer is the spacious living area. There’s plenty of room to walk around without feeling cramped. The U-shaped dinette also seats a family comfortably, which is ideal for dinners, game nights, or other group activities.
One side of the trailer houses a sofa that turns into a murphy bed when needed. The bed is large enough for a couple to sleep well, while two shirt closets on each side provide ample room for clothes and luggage. There’s also an overhead cabinet above the bed for other items. The sofa itself is a nice area to lounge on in the day, by yourself, or with another person.
The bathroom isn’t as small as the ones in other trailers. It contains a decent-sized shower space, toilet, and sink. There’s also a linen closet which can be used to hold towels and toiletries. The kitchen area has a large refrigerator, which is ideal for those that don’t want to visit the grocery store too often.
Across from the refrigerator lies a small pantry, but this space can also be used for dishes if needed be. The kitchen has all the necessary features, including a deep sink, oven, microwave, and stovetop. You’ll also find a kitchen on the trailer’s exterior that includes a sink and a fridge. This is great for entertaining others, as well as those days when you want to stay outside and enjoy the weather.
Main Features
- Length: 26’ 1”
- Unloaded Weight: 4,486 lbs
- Sleeps: Up to 4 people
- Vintage interior
- Plenty of storage cabinets
- Ample living space
8. Airstream Caravel 19CB
Caravel’s Airstream models are the lightest trailers that the brand makes. The Caravel’s come in four different floor plans that can all be towed by trucks and bigger SUVs. You can choose whether to go for a light pewter interior, or a darker tungsten one. Classic black accents are seen throughout the trailer. These contrast well with the stainless steel sinks, stove, and cast-iron burners.
The Caravel looks great, but it also has a nice amount of space. The 19CB model can hold 4 sleeping people. The dinette can seat four people, but it also folds into extra beds for two people. The bed lies at the back corner, which fits two people comfortably. The bathroom is small, but it has all of the necessary things you’ll need, including a toilet, sink, and shower space.
Other noteworthy features in the Caravel are air conditioning, Ultraleather seats, and large windows on each end of the trailer. These let in a lot of light, which helps the trailer feel larger than it is.
Main Features
- Length: 21’ 11”
- Unloaded Weight: 4,200 lbs
- Sleeps: Up to 4 people
- Aesthetically pleasing interior
- Air conditioning
9. Grand Design Imagine XLS 17 MKE
If you want a lightweight trailer that has more open space, this model could be right for you. The Imagine XLS can hold three sleeping people. This isn’t a large number, but it does leave more room in the trailer. As you enter the trailer, you’ll notice a sofa on the right. This folds out into a queen-size murphy bed. It has two drawers underneath that can hold clothes, sheets, and any other items. As you sit on the sofa, you can see a television near the kitchen area. You’ll be able to lounge on the sofa and keep entertained while watching your favorite shows.
A theatre dinette lies opposite the kitchen area that’s wide enough to seat three people. If needed, the table across it can be removed to create more space. The kitchen itself has all of the basic requirements, including a microwave, sink, and refrigerator. Several overhead cabinets can hold dried food, cleaning supplies, and dishes.
The shower is also spacious and has a skylight that lets natural light in. There’s enough room to move around without feeling cramped. The sink also has an area next to it that can hold makeup bags, shaving kits, or even a coffee pot. You’ll have enough room to keep toothbrushes, toothpaste, and medicines in the overhead cabinet.
If you plan on traveling in winter, this trailer is a good choice as it includes a strong 25,000 BTU furnace. This will keep you and others toasty even if the temperatures drop a lot. There’s lots of space to keep you comfortable while you travel, so it’s also a nicer choice for those that are traveling for longer periods.
Main Features
- Length: 21’ 11”
- Unloaded Weight: 4674 lbs
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 3 people
- Lots of space throughout the trailer
- Powerful furnace for cold weather
10. Heartland Mallard M210RB
Heartland’s Mallard M210RB is a great trailer for those traveling in colder months. It’s one of the more insulated trailers that you’ll find on the market, thanks to its fiberglass sidewalls. The steps flip down and up for easy entry, while small glow-in-the-dark graphics make this trailer easy to find in the dark.
The exterior also has an awning that’s fitted with LED lights. This creates a shaded resting place in the day that turns into a lit relaxing area at night.
The kitchen is a Master Chef kitchen that has impressive stainless steel sinks and countertops. It also contains an oven, microwave, medium refrigerator, and a stovetop with three burners. You’ll also notice a sink cover to protect the steel sink, along with a countertop space to prepare food. Interestingly, this trailer doesn’t have a dinette, but it has a large sofa instead. A table lies across the sofa which provides a place to eat, read, and relax.
As you enter the trailer, you’ll notice the king-size bed. This is larger than beds in most trailers, but it still has enough room to walk around on both sides. An over cabinet lies above the bed to hold any clothes, linens, or other items. You and others will enjoy the up-to-date entertainment center, keeping you amused while you’re on the road.
Main Features:
- Length: 22’ 7”
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 4598 lbs
- Sleeping Capacity: 3 – 4 people
- Large sleeping space
- Fiberglass insulation
The Bottom Line
We hope that we’ve helped to narrow down your search for a new lightweight trailer. Travel trailers under 5000 lbs come in several different sizes and features, but thinking about the things you want and don’t want can help you in the process. After all, everyone is different! Some might want to swap a spacious living area for a roomier bathroom or vice versa. Make sure that you follow our advice at the start and check that your vehicle can tow your desired trailer before you buy it.
We’re sure that you’ll love several of the trailers on this list, but in the end, we hope that the one you choose is the right one for your needs.
