The Ultimate Guide to Lightweight Travel Trailers for Solo Adventurers

Embarking on a solo adventure is a powerful and liberating experience, and for the intrepid individual who craves the thrill of the open road, finding the perfect travel companion is essential. 

And no, I’m not talking about your dog, even though they always make the best travel buddies!

In the world of solo travel, having the right lightweight travel trailer can make all the difference, offering freedom, flexibility, and comfort as you navigate diverse landscapes and create unforgettable memories. 

In this blog, I’ll cover the best lightweight travel trailers designed to empower solo travelers. 

Whether you’re a seasoned nomad or a first-time explorer, this guide is tailored to help you choose the perfect wheels for your fearless journeys ahead. 

What’s On Deck:

Why Choose a Lightweight Travel Trailer? 

There are numerous capabilities, features, weight requirements, layouts, and price points to consider when you’re searching for the best lightweight travel trailer to support your spontaneous adventures. 

And trust me when I say, the information overload feels like you’re trying to drink water through a fire hose opened at full throttle. 

For towing beginners (which is where I started just two years ago), choosing a lightweight travel trailer is the best route to take.

By opting for a light, agile rig, you can feel confident that your travel trailer will: 

• Fit into any campground parking slot easily 
• Support you in any on or off-grid adventure 
• Be easy to maneuver solo without any assistance 
• Help you learn how to tow effectively and confidently 
• Empower you to take on any adventure you want 
• Tow easily behind your desired tow vehicle 
• Allow you to park your home wherever and explore with ease

I’ve found all of these things to be true based on my experience as a camper owner.

One major benefit of lightweight travel trailers is that they’re compact but outfitted with everything you need to stay comfortable. Plus, there are fewer moving parts to maintain and learn how to use appropriately, making them the perfect RV choice for beginners. 

Now let’s take a look at some technical definitions you need to know before we dive into my shortlist of the most comfortable lightweight travel trailers for solo travelers. 

Tech Specs and Foundational Knowledge for Beginners

As a beginner, I had to research every single tiny detail about campers, recreational vehicles, towing ratings, gross vehicle weight requirements, travel trailer types, and more. 

But all of that information isn’t always necessary to know right off the bat! 

Honestly, if you get too far down the rabbit hole, it takes the fun right out of your research. (Speaking from personal experience.)

That’s why I pulled together the quick and dirty version that will give you a great foundation of knowledge to build off of as you become more familiar with this new genre of adventure vehicles. 

Recreational Vehicles Come in Eight Shapes and Sizes

Recreational Vehicles, or RVs for short, are categorized into different classifications based on their functionality, capabilities, and weight requirements. 

Here are the eight different types of RVs that you’ll encounter on your search and the road: 

1. Travel Trailers: A non-motorized, compact home mounted on wheels that can be towed behind your personal vehicle and is designed for recreational, camping, or travel use. 

2. Fifth Wheel Trailers: An RV that is towed by a truck by way of a mounted U-shaped coupler in the middle of the cargo bed. These are extremely common and I see them on almost every road trip I take.

3. Lightweight Trailers: Lightweight or ultra-light campers are travel trailers that weigh under 6,000 lbs and can effectively be towed by standard vehicles or half-ton trucks. Popular lightweight trailers weigh around 3,500 lbs. 

4. Expandable Trailers: A combination of a hard-sided trailer and the soft-sided flexibility of a pop-up camper or tent. 

5. Toy Haulers: A type of RV designed with living space and mobile “garage” space that can be used to transport recreational “toys” like a four-wheeler, kayak, dirt bike, electric bike, etc. 

6. Class A Motorhome: These vehicles are built on heavy-duty frames, similar to how commercial buses are constructed, with dual-sided pop-outs and typically sleep 2 to 4 people. 

7. Class B Motorhome: This class of motorhomes is well known as a camper van, or van conversion, and is designed to have living quarters, a kitchen, a living area, and a bathroom on board. This is the most affordable class of motorhome. 

8. Class C Motorhome: These medium-sized motorhomes distinctively feature an over-cab sleeping area and indoor living quarters, a bathroom, kitchen, living area, and storage areas that traditionally sleep 4 to 8 people. Class C Motorhomes have the horsepower to tow a standard-sized car, offering more flexibility when traveling.

This list above can be broken up into two groups: motorhomes and trailers. 

Motorhomes mean that you can drive them — aka they have an engine on board — whereas trailers need to be towed by a separate vehicle. 

Typically the largest RV you see on the road is either a Class C Motorhome or Fifth Wheel Trailers. 

But, for a first-time solo traveler, we’re going to look at the smallest end of the spectrum. 

In this blog, I’ll only be covering trailers that fit into the ultra-lightweight trailer category and weigh under 2,000 lbs. 

Weight Requirements and Towing Ratings for Beginners

You’ll see a lot of alphabet soup when looking into RVs. You’ll also see a new set of technical terms related to weight capacities, dry weight, tongue jack weight capacities, and much more. 

When I first started out, I was very overwhelmed because I didn’t know sh*t from apple butter.

BUT, my goal is to help you skip over all the confusion and get right to the good stuff. Here are three critical definitions you need to know when evaluating lightweight travel trailers. 

• Dry Weight: refers to the weight of the travel trailer without any cargo added. This is the minimum weight of the trailer when you drive it off the lot, brand spanking new. 

• Length: this is referencing the length of the entire trailer frame, from the tongue jack at the very front to the last part of the frame in the back. For trailers that have a longer frame than living space, I’ll call out both lengths when applicable. 

• GVWR: this stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, which refers to two things: the maximum weight the frame of your travel trailer or motorhome can support and the maximum weight the towing vehicle can support while still staying in line with safety guidelines. This is an important number! The GVWR will determine which lightweight campers are safe for you to tow with your current vehicle. 

Okay, now that we have the boring stuff covered, let’s dive into the most comfortable lightweight campers that will be the perfect home away from home for all of your adventures. 

Are you excited? You should be! 

5 Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailers for Solo Adventurers

There are endless options when it comes to lightweight campers. 

The lightweight travel trailer category includes any travel trailer that weighs under 6,000 lbs, but the most common weights range from 1,500 lbs to 3,500 lbs. 

I’ll be covering lightweight travel trailers under 2000 lbs that make it easy to go on any solo adventure and tow with any vehicle, including two-door Jeep Wranglers — which is the make and model that I use to tow my SunRay 109 Sport. 

I know, I know, enough background already! This is the last thing, I promise. 

This list is ranked from best for Overlanding and remote adventures to best for campground life with creature comforts.

1. Hiker Trailer Extreme Off-Road Travel Trailer

The Hiker Trailer Extreme Off-Road travel trailer is like a trusty sidekick for adventurers who love going off-road. It’s tough on the outside with its steel frame and aluminum exterior, ready to handle any rough terrain you throw at it. 

But don’t let its ruggedness fool you; inside, it’s all about the comfort and convenience you’re accustomed to with a teardrop-style camper. With customizable options, you can make it your home away from home, whether you’re out for a weekend or a longer journey. 

With modern features like LED lighting and USB ports, you can stay cozy and connected no matter where you roam. 

So, if you’re all about exploring off-the-beaten path in testy terrain without sacrificing comfort, the Hiker Trailer Extreme is your go-to companion.

Here are the highlights: 

Features & Benefits 

• Features rear wheel frame integrated storage racks 
• Rear stabilizer jacks for added stability, plus a rear hitch receiver for extra storage
• Rear side swing door pairs well with two side windows and screens for ventilation
• Can create a custom galley (kitchen) that meets your needs
• Optional roof rack system, awning additions, and rooftop storage 
• Can add electric breaks (I think this should be included in the standard offering, but that’s just me)

Tech Specs

• Starting Price: $13,000 for a base model
• Length: 14.75 ft 
• Dry Weight: will vary based on customizable option selection
• GVWR: 2,900 lbs
• Wheels/Tires: 17” Aluminum Alloy wheels with approximately 33” tires
• Kitchen: Rear galley set up similar to teardrop campers
• Bathroom: Not included 
• AC/Furnace: Optional but both AC and a heat solution combined will cost you $4K

2. TigerMoth from TAXAOutdoors 

During my personal search for a small travel trailer for my Jeep Wrangler, I stumbled across TAXAOutdoors. 

This company was founded by a former NASA employee and they are developing innovative travel trailers that break the traditional mold of what a camper “should” be. 

Their modern approach to design — specifically how they maximized every inch of each model — was something that immediately stood out to me. 

The TigerMoth travel trailer is where a traditional teardrop design merges with Overlanding travel trailer solutions to create a streamlined RV that’s perfect for solo travelers who prefer to take the road less traveled. 

Of all the models I researched during my camper purchasing process, the TigerMoth was my front-runner for months. 

Here are the highlights: 

Features & Benefits 

• The ideal mix of overlanding and everyday camping functionality 
• Thoughtfully designed to accommodate outdoor enthusiasts with a roof rack that can support bike mounts, kayak mounts, and even an additional rooftop tent 
• Compact length and height allow this model to fit securely in a standard garage 
• Large door openings and windows allow for optimal ventilation and views 
• Interior includes a cafe table top that can be removed to expand the seating into a full size bed
• Dual stabilizer jacks are included for added stability 

Tech Specs

• Starting Price: $20,546
• Length: 12ft 10 inches 
• Dry Weight: 1,310 lbs
• GVWR: 2,200 lbs 
• Wheels/Tires: 15” steel wheel with All Terrain tires
• Kitchen: Pull-out kitchen drawer with camp stove on the rear
• Bathroom: Not included
• AC/Furnace: Optional add on that can be mounted in place of the front window 

3. SunRay 109 Sport

I’ll disclose my personal bias now because this is the exact model I currently own! 

I stumbled across a Sunray 109 for the first time when browsing Facebook Marketplace. I loved its retro feel but hated the light blue color of the model I stumbled upon. This led me to do a local search to find a dealership titled Uwharrie RV out in Albemarle, North Carolina. 

For those who don’t know, Uwharrie is also a national forest!

And since I like to habit stack like a boss, I decided that my dog Rocky and I would drive out to Uwharrie, go hiking in the morning, and then swing by the dealership on our way home. 

Lo and behold, the Sunray 109 Sport that Rocky and I viewed at Uwharrie RV would be the exact lightweight travel trailer that I drove home a couple of months later. 

I fell in love with this lightweight travel trailer because it had a comfortable feel, allowed for easy after-market customization, featured an outdoor kitchen, and included creature comforts that make camping in any climate simple. It’s a no-fuss design with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Here’s a quick look at some additional highlights that swayed my purchasing decision:

Features & Benefits 

• Outfitted with a futon-style sofa bed on the interior 
• Features an AC unit and separate furnace for cold or warm weather camping
• Supported by a 6” lift kit with a Leaf Spring suspension system 
• Solar power wiring prep for optional solar panels
• 500lb roof rack capabilities to haul all your outdoor gear
• Bluetooth speakers inside and outside the living quarters alongside a radio unit (I hook up my iPad and watch movies in surround sound on the interior)
• Optional TV mount with cable/satellite hookups 

Tech Specs

• Starting Price: $13,983
• Length: 12ft
• Dry Weight: 1,280 lbs
• GVWR: 2000 lbs
• Wheels/Tires: 14” tires on aluminum wheels 
• Kitchen: Two burner gas stove with a sink and Dometic fridge/freezer in the rear
• Bathroom: Not included 
• AC/Furnace: Both included 

4. The Original ALINER Camper

The ALINER is a cute camper home on wheels, ideal for those who enjoy the lightweight nature of a pop-up travel trailer but would prefer some sturdier walls. 

This unique A-line design is all the rage when it comes to creating off-grid cabins to live out your homesteading dreams surrounded by nothing but the forest. 

However, in a camper design, the A-line frame provides you with plenty of headroom to stand up inside, cook your meal, and collapse everything to head on to your next adventure with ease. 

There are two specific models that are ideal for solo travelers: the Scout-Lite and the Ranger 10. I am going to focus on the Scout-Lite because in my opinion, especially for beginners, having fewer moving parts is better!

It’s also less stressful to pack up and get on the road in case you encounter an individual or vibe that doesn’t suit you. 

Speediness in those situations is paramount. 

Here are the Scout-Lite highlights: 

Features & Benefits 

• Designed to be the ideal companion for campground stays of any length 
• Features two skylights with night shades for the ultimate stargazing experience
• Outfitted with a city water hookup and a 35 amp converter 
• Includes four stabilizer jacks for added stability
• Each model comes with a solar panel port and LED running lights 
• Enjoy a high-density foam, hypoallergenic mattress and cushions 

Tech Specs

• Starting Price: Not available online. Contact your local dealer. 
• Length: 10ft camper on a 13ft frame 
• Dry Weight: 1180 lbs
• GVWR: 3000 lbs
• Wheels/Tires: 14” tires on aluminum wheels 
• Kitchen: Sink is included inside with a table top for a portable camper stove
• Bathroom: Not included 
• AC/Furnace: Optional side mount air conditioning unit 

5. Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailer

Looking for a cozy home-on-wheels that’s packed with all the essentials for your next adventure? Look no further than the Scamp Standard 13′ camper. 

Picture this: whipping up a delicious meal on the 2-burner propane stove, washing dishes in the kitchen sink, and grabbing a cold drink from the fridge — all while surrounded by the great outdoors. 

And when it’s time to recharge, plug in your devices at the handy USB station while enjoying the peace and quiet.

This lightweight travel trailer is ideal for those who need to work from the road. 

The flexible interior that converts from a bed into a cafe table and dining area is a must-have so you can work efficiently wherever, whenever, and regardless of the weather. 

For those who are considering camper van life, this is the closest layout to a camper van but in a towable model versus a motorhome. 

Features & Benefits

• Fiberglass construction offers improved durability 
• Electric or wireless brakes are listed as an optional add-on feature
• You can choose to install an anti-sway bar in your package (I love this! This is a must-have for short vehicles towing short campers)
• Screen door to let in fresh air without the bugs while room darkening blinds make lazy mornings easy
• Multiple sets of cabinets offer increased storage solutions 
• Available with numerous customization options
• Layout one features bunk beads instead of a bathroom which makes it lighter

Tech Specs for layout one

• Starting Price: Contact Scamp or your local dealer for pricing
• Length: 13ft
• Dry Weight: 1,500 lbs
• GVWR: Unavailable online (don’t love that)
• Wheels/Tires: Measurements unavailable online
• Kitchen: Two burner gas stove top and sink located inside 
• Bathroom: Included in the upgraded layout
• AC/Furnace: Optional add-on AC unit or furnace 

What’s the Lightest Travel Trailer?

Based on my research, one of the lightest trailers you can purchase today is the Sunray 109 Sport from Sunset Park RV.  

Although the dry weight is higher than some models I have listed above, the GVWR and fully loaded weight capacity of this travel trailer is only 2,000 lbs. Most of the lightweight models I mentioned above have a frame built to withstand up to 3500 lbs — meaning they can safely support the weight of 3,500 lbs. 

The Sunray 109 Sport taps out at almost 1,000 lbs shy of the standard which makes it an ideal solution for two-door Jeep Wranglers and other towing vehicles that have a lighter towing capacity. 

I’m not saying that the Sunray 109 Sport is THE lightest travel trailer of all time. But I am saying that in the context of a pretty exhaustive list of ultra-lightweight travel trailers, this model is as light as a 2,000 lb bag of feathers.

The Best Lightweight Travel Trailer is the One You Love

The world of lightweight RVs is a really fun one! There are many companies creating camper options that will comfortably support you on all your outdoor adventures.

From Overlanding enthusiasts to glamping champs, there’s truly an RV model for everyone. 

Regardless of where you are in your research journey, here are my three most important pieces of advice to keep in mind: 

1. Determine your budget before you do anything else 
2. Identify your vehicle’s GVWR (towing capacity) then start exploring RV options
3. Choose an RV that makes it easy for you to spend more time outside 

Happy shopping!