small pop-up campers

Top 8 Lightest Pop Up Campers in 2023

An RV camping trip can provide you with unforgettable experiences. But lugging around a traditional heavy camper doesn’t sound to be convenient, especially when you’re a solo traveler. Enter the lightweight pop up camper, a game-changer for all camping enthusiasts, who travel alone or with a partner. It’s compact, easy to tow, and still provides all the standard comforts and amenities.

Let’s explore the world of small pop up campers and see why they’re the perfect solution to your camping needs.

An ultra light pop up camper is a small tent on wheels that can be easily towed behind a car or truck.

Here is the list of the top 8 lightweight pop up camper models with their dry weight and length:

  • Size: Twin, Full, Short Queen, Queen, King
  • Thickness: 6 Inch, 8 Inch, 10 Inch, 12 Inch
  • Firmness: Medium firm
  • Certification: CertiPUR US Certified
  • Warranty: 10 year warranty

Jayco Pop-Up Camping Trailer

Specifications: 

  • Width: 7’1″
  • Hitch Weight: 375 lbs
  • GVWR: 2,750 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 8 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 28.2 gallons

Designed to be towed by any mid-size SUV, this tiny pop up camper is the perfect choice for those who enjoy camping but want extra comfort and convenience. 

The foot-forward design and kitchen area make for a great living and cooking experience. Its heavy-duty aluminum construction ensures that you can enjoy all comforts and convenience for years. 

Best Features:

  • Heavy-duty aluminum construction resists rust and scratch
  • Single wooden floor with Ply Flex wrapped
  • The roof is crafted from durable fiberglass
  • Bed braces are removable and come with a convenient storage bag
  • A 12-volt electrical system equipped with a 110V converter
  • Acrylic faucet and sink
  • A durable stainless steel stove designed for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Windows made from tinted vinyl is equipped with fine mesh screening

Forest River Rockwood Tent 1640 LTD

Specifications:

  • Width: 7′ 
  • GVWR: 2258 lbs
  • Hitch Weight: 162 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 11 gallons

The Rockwood Tent 1640 LTD is a popular lightweight pop up camper. It provides all the standard amenities and features needed for a comfortable camping experience.

The trailer has a spacious interior that can accommodate up to six people. The interior is also well-designed, with plenty of storage space for your camping gear and supplies.

Best Features:

  • The trailer body is made of a highly durable steel frame
  • It has a single entrance door but no sliding glass door 
  • The sidewall construction is made of tent fabric, which provides excellent insulation against heat
  • It comes with two full-size beds that are equipped with comfortable mattresses
  • The interior wood finish adds a touch of warmth and luxury to the space
  • A fully equipped kitchen, complete with a 2-burner stove, a sink, and a propane refrigerator
  • Electric drum brakes to ensure a smooth and safe ride

Coachmen Clipper Sport 860QS

Specifications:

  • Width: 7’1″
  • Hitch Weight: 203 lbs
  • GVWR: 2,942 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 3 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 16 gallons

Despite having a small size, the features and amenities of this lightweight pop up camper feature makes you feel at home on the road. 

The living area is located in the center of the trailer. It has a full kitchen, a refrigerator and stove, a comfortable sleeping area, and a bathroom with a shower. The cassette toilet is pretty convenient, yet quite uncommon for such a small trailer. 

One of the most impressive features of the Clipper Sport 860QS is its 15 different floor plans. Choose the model that you think will best suit your travel needs. 

Best Features:

  • Kitchen and living area have vinyl flooring
  • The sidewall is constructed with tent fabric
  • The trailer body is high-quality, lightweight aluminum
  • It has a cassette toilet
  • Air conditioning and heat prewiring
  • One comfortable and spacious queen size bed
  • An automatic 20,000 BTUs heater

Sylvansport Go Trailer

Specifications:

  • Width: 4′
  • Hitch Weight: 165 lbs
  • GVWR:  1650 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 20 gallons

At only 840 pounds, the Sylvansport Go Trailer is the lightest pop up camper on the market. This makes it easy to tow with almost any vehicle. 

Due to the trailer’s gear deck and roof rack, you can bring all your outdoor equipment, including bikes, kayaks, and more. The cargo deck also doubles as a platform for setting up a tent or a comfortable outdoor lounge area.

Best Features:

  • A foldable tend pod for hassle-free tent setup 
  • Powder-coated aluminum structure that prevents corrosion
  • Foldable sleeping and dining layout
  • The waterproof tent is made of nylon fabric
  • 3-way doors for privacy, weather protection, and providing screen

Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0

Specifications:

  • Width: 7′ 
  • Hitch Weight: 110 lbs
  • GVWR:  1500 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 5 gallons

The Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0 is one of the smallest pop up camper units. Measuring just over 6 feet in length and weighing only 994 pounds. Constructed with 100% aluminum, it’s durable and resists rust and corrosion. 

The trailer comes equipped with prewiring that allows for the seamless integration of solar panels. For this reason, you can take it for off-grid camping and boondocking. This feature sets this product apart from its competitors. 

Best Features:

  • Both the body frame and sidewall are made of durable aluminum 
  • Softshell bunk material 
  • Rear manual/front leveling jack
  • Vinyl floor in the living area and kitchen
  • 25 amp battery converter
  • Automatic 8,000 BTUs air conditioning system
  • Two flip-out dinettes and beds area

Scout-Lite – Aliner

Specifications:

  • Length: 13′
  • Width: 6’6″
  • Dry Weight: 1,180 lbs
  • Hitch Weight: 130 lbs
  • GVWR:  3000 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 3 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 11 gallons

When people think of small pop-up campers, they often envision traditional tent-style pop-ups with collapsible fold-out bunks and canvas walls. 

Unlike the vinyl and canvas walls of standard pop-ups, Scout-Lite campers feature real windows and hard-sided fiberglass walls. 

This design offers several advantages, including better sound deadening and insulation for cold weather. Its solid windows and walls offer a quieter and cozier camping environment, making it an excellent option for those who value comfort and peace of mind.

Best Features:

  • Two available models with gray and black exterior
  • 2 interior and outside electrical outlets
  • High-thickness foam, mattresses, and hypoallergenic cushions
  • Thermoplastic composite ceiling panels and interior wall
  • 35 amp converter and four 4 stabilizer jacks
  • One door window and exterior bag door
  • The trailer also features a cassette toilet

TigerMoth Taxa Outdoors

Specifications: 

  • Width: 6’7″
  • Hitch Weight: 127 lbs
  • GVWR: 2200 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 5 gallons

With its optional rooftop tent and 40 sq ft of living space, the TigerMoth Taxa lightweight pop up camper is the ultimate adventure vehicle. 

Despite its small size, this trailer has features that make it a comfortable home away from home. Its built-in electrical system keeps you connected no matter where you go.

And if you want to dry camp in a remote place, the camper will give you the best support with its wired solar panels. 

Best Features: 

  • 12V accessory exterior and interior outlet
  • Powder coated body material 
  • Full-size couch and bed
  • Electric brakes and torsion axle suspension 
  • Wiring solar panels and external water system
  • 4 acrylic windows with shades and screens

Turtleback Getaway Trail

Specifications:

  • Width: 6’7″
  • Hitch Weight: 135 lbs
  • GVWR: 2000 lbs
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4 people
  • Freshwater Storage: 21 gallons

The Turtleback Getaway Trail is one of the best pop up campers under 1500 lbs. Thanks to the steel outer frame, high-clearance axles, and all-terrain tires, the camper can handle even the toughest terrain. 

The lightweight camper is designed to be rugged and equipped for off-road adventures, with features that make boondocking easy. You can camp in the most remote locations, such as BLM or National Forestry Land. 

Best Features:

  • 20-inch tall steel camper box
  • Solar charging port and lighting system
  • Solid maple countertop
  • 265/75/16  tires and wheels with spare mount
  • Rear and roof rack
  • External shower and DSI 6 gallons water heater 
  • 11 lb propane tank and Baltic birch slide-out kitchen

Benefits of Small Pop-up Campers

Buying a small pop-up camper offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for camping enthusiasts. Firstly, small pop-up campers are highly maneuverable and easy to tow. Their lightweight and compact design make them compatible with a wider range of vehicles, including smaller SUVs and trucks. This provides you with more flexibility in choosing your towing vehicle and allows for easier navigation on the road.

Fuel efficiency is another notable benefit of small pop-up campers. Their lightweight construction puts less strain on your vehicle’s engine, resulting in improved gas mileage. This not only helps you save money on fuel costs but also allows for longer trips without frequent refueling stops.

The compact size of small pop-up campers also enhances their versatility and accessibility. They are easier to maneuver into tight camping spots, navigate through narrow roads, and park in crowded campgrounds. This opens up opportunities to explore remote and secluded camping destinations that may be inaccessible to larger RVs or trailers.

From a financial standpoint, small pop-up campers often come with a more affordable price tag compared to larger recreational vehicles. They provide a cost-effective entry point into the world of camping, making them a suitable option for individuals or families on a budget. Additionally, the lower cost extends to other aspects such as insurance, maintenance, and storage fees.

When it comes to storage and parking convenience, small pop-up campers have a distinct advantage. Their compact size requires less storage space, allowing you to park them in a standard garage, driveway, or smaller storage facility. This eliminates the need for finding specialized storage solutions or paying extra fees for larger RV storage spaces.

One of the appealing aspects of small pop-up campers is their quick and easy set-up process. They are designed for efficient deployment, typically featuring simple mechanisms that enable you to have your campsite ready in a matter of minutes. This means you can spend less time on setting up camp and more time enjoying outdoor activities.

Despite their smaller size, small pop-up campers still provide a cozy and intimate camping experience. They offer a comfortable sleeping area, kitchenette facilities, and storage space while maintaining a closer connection to nature. You can still enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors while having the essential amenities within a more compact and intimate setting.

Lastly, small pop-up campers are flexible and adaptable to different camping styles. Whether you prefer short weekend getaways, extended trips, or even boondocking in remote areas, a small camper can accommodate your needs. They offer the convenience and comforts of camping while allowing you to explore various camping destinations and tailor your experiences to your preferences.

In conclusion, buying a small pop-up camper provides numerous advantages such as easy towing, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, versatility, lower cost, storage convenience, quick set-up, intimate camping experience, and flexibility for different camping styles. Consider your camping preferences, budget, and needs to determine if a small pop-up camper is the right choice for you.

Pop-up Camper Buying Guide

With a wide range of options available on the market, choosing the best pop-up camper for your needs can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best pop-up camper.

Determine Your Camping Needs

Before diving into the world of pop-up campers, it’s important to understand your specific camping needs. Consider the number of people who will be using the camper, the duration of your trips, and the type of camping you prefer.

Are you a solo camper or do you have a family? Do you enjoy extended camping trips or short weekend getaways? These factors will help determine the size, layout, and amenities you require in a pop-up camper.

Size and Layout

Pop-up campers come in various sizes and layouts, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. Consider the sleeping capacity, dining area, kitchenette, bathroom facilities, and storage space.

If you have a larger family or plan to camp with friends, you may need a camper with multiple sleeping areas and a spacious dining area.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more compact and lightweight camper for solo or couple camping, a smaller layout might be more suitable.

Weight and Towing Capacity

One crucial factor to consider when choosing a pop-up camper is its weight and your vehicle’s towing capacity. Check the weight of the camper and ensure that your vehicle can safely tow it.

Take into account the weight of the camper when fully loaded with gear, supplies, and water. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity can put strain on the engine and compromise safety on the road.

Construction and Durability

The construction and durability of a pop-up camper are essential for longevity and comfort. Look for a camper that is built with quality materials that can withstand outdoor conditions.

The body of the camper should be sturdy, resistant to weather elements, and capable of withstanding the wear and tear of camping adventures. Pay attention to the quality of the interior components such as cabinets, flooring, and upholstery to ensure they can withstand regular use.

Ease of Set-up and Storage

One of the key advantages of pop-up campers is their easy setup and storage. However, different models may vary in terms of setup mechanisms and convenience. Consider how quickly and easily the camper can be set up and taken down. Look for features such as simple crank systems or hydraulic lifts that streamline the process.

Additionally, consider the storage options when the camper is not in use. A camper that can be folded down into a compact size will make storage and transportation much more convenient.

Amenities and Features

The amenities and features offered by a pop-up camper can greatly enhance your camping experience. Evaluate the amenities that are important to you and align with your camping style.

Common features include sleeping areas, kitchen facilities, storage space, electrical outlets, heating and cooling systems, and entertainment options. Determine which features are essential and prioritize them when comparing different models.

Price and Budget

Setting a budget for your pop-up camper purchase is essential. Determine how much you are willing to spend and explore options within that price range. Keep in mind that pop-up campers come in a wide range of prices, from entry-level models to more luxurious ones with advanced features.

Consider the long-term value and quality when comparing prices. While budget is important, it’s also important to strike a balance between your budget and the features and quality you desire. Research different brands and models to find the best value for your investment.

User Reviews

User reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of different pop-up camper models. Take the time to read reviews from other campers who have firsthand experience with the camper you are considering.

Look for feedback on durability, ease of use, comfort, and customer satisfaction. Real-world experiences can offer valuable information to help you make an informed decision.

Brand Reputation and Support

Consider the reputation and customer support provided by the pop-up camper manufacturer. A well-established brand with a positive track record is more likely to deliver quality products and reliable customer service.

Look for manufacturers with a history of producing durable and well-designed campers. Good customer support can be crucial when it comes to addressing any issues or obtaining replacement parts.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Evaluate the maintenance requirements of the pop-up camper you are considering. Look for campers that are easy to clean and maintain. Consider factors such as the accessibility of components for repairs or maintenance tasks.

Check if replacement parts are readily available and if there are service centers or authorized dealers in your area. A camper with easy maintenance and good support can save you time and hassle in the long run.

Personal Preferences

Lastly, don’t forget to consider your personal preferences and camping style. Factors such as aesthetics, color options, and additional customization options may play a role in your decision-making process. While not as critical as other factors, they can contribute to your overall camping experience and satisfaction with the pop-up camper.

By taking these factors into account and conducting thorough research, you can find the pop-up camper that suits your needs, enhances your camping adventures, and provides years of enjoyable camping experiences. Happy camping!

Conclusion

When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, few things compare to the freedom and flexibility of camping. And if you’re looking for a camping option that offers both convenience and comfort, a lightweight pop up camper can be a great option for minimalist travelers.

These versatile campers provide a comfortable shelter while still maintaining the open-air experience that makes camping so special. It also gives you all necessary amenities you need for camping outdoors without the maintenance hassles of larger, heavier trailers.

It’s portability and easy setup make it a convenient choice for weekend getaways or longer trips. Additionally, the affordability of these campers makes them a practical option for those on a budget.

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