© Happier Camper
Great First Travel Trailers
Remember car camping? Last time you swore you were never going to sleep on the ground again, stuck in a moist tent with sneakers and socks at nose level all night. Moving up a rung in camp life likely means a travel trailer, which is a great first RV for those who want to get away and camp in comfort. As a new trailer owner, you will be amazed by what a foot or two of height can do for your sleep and thus the whole camping experience — not to mention a real mattress, a galley, storage, and (perhaps) your own bathroom. What follows are great first travel trailers — at various price points — for those new to RVing.
© KZ RV
Towing Basics
Before beginning any search for a travel trailer, first consider the vehicle that will tow your new tiny house on wheels. Today’s midsize and larger crossovers, SUVs, vans and pickups will easily haul light entry- or mid-level travel trailers. In fact, many newer utility vehicles are already set up for towing with transmission coolers, larger radiators and wiring harnesses — even hitch receivers. Determine the GVWR and towing capacity of your vehicle and plan the trailer search accordingly. Nothing dampens a trailer purchase more than discovering your vehicle will not tow it safely. Once the tow vehicle gets sorted the fun begins — searching for your first travel trailer.
© Airstream
Airstream Basecamp 16
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $40,100
Dry Weight: 2,650 lbs.
Length: 16 ft. 2 in.
Width: 7 ft.
Sleeps: 2
Granted this list is alphabetical, although kicking things off with a trailer from one of the most famous names in RVing seems appropriate. Airstream has been a pioneer in the outdoor recreation industry since the 1930s, selling both trailers and motorhomes. In response to the growing trend of teardrops and tiny trailers, a few years ago Airstream went back to its roots by offering the 16-foot Basecamp. The unit has a rear hatch for loading equipment, wraparound panoramic windows up front, an exterior shower and optional solar panels. The company also builds the Basecamp 20 ($47,100) that sleeps four.
© Airstream
Airstream Basecamp 16 Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 3.5 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes
The Basecamp series is not inexpensive, although the high-quality construction, materials and build methods mean an Airstream holds its value and will last for generations. The 16-foot Basecamp sleeps two and features a wraparound front galley, a wet bath (combined shower and toilet), and a rear seating area. The 20-foot version sleeps four (shown above); both variants are also available in an X off-road package that features a lift kit for more ground clearance as well as bigger off-road tires.
© Airstream
Airstream Basecamp Floor Plan
The Basecamp 16 features comfortable seating for four, a wet bath and a panoramic view out front beyond the wraparound galley.
© Aliner
Aliner Family
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $30,000
Dry Weight: Less than 2,000 lbs.
Length: 18 ft.
Width: 7 ft.
Sleeps: 4
Aliners are pop-up A-frame campers with hard walls. Made with pride in Pennsylvania, Aliner models range from the minimalist Scout-Lite to the decked-out Expedition. With Aliners, drivers have maximum rearward visibility while towing, and once at a campsite the trailer can be popped up into a completely hard-sided camper in less than a minute — especially convenient when camping in bear country.
© Aliner
Aliner Family Interior
Ceiling Height: ft. in.
Bath: No (outdoor shower)
Toilet: Yes, cassette
Many Aliner models also have pop-out dormers for increased interior space, such as a dinette (shown above). Aliner A-frame trailers are lightweight so they can be easily towed by most properly equipped crossovers, SUVs and pickups. To meet increased demand, Aliner has streamlined production processes via more standardized trailer choices, so check the company website for updates and other info.
© Aliner
Aliner Family Floor Plan
The Aliner Family floor plan includes three beds as well as an optional cassette toilet and an exterior slideout kitchenettte.
© Bigfoot RV
Bigfoot RV 25B17.5FB
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $54,247
Dry Weight: 3,360 lbs.
Length: 17 ft. 5 in.
Width: 8 ft.
Sleeps: 3
Hailing from Armstrong, Canada, Bigfoot RV has been making truck campers and travel trailers for more than 30 years. The units are sold through select factory outlets throughout North America, which can be found on their website. Bigfoot trailers feature two-piece, boatlike fiberglass construction, high-density insulation and thermal pane windows for true four-season recreating. The 2500 series trailer comes with many standard exterior features including dual propane tanks, a rack and ladder, heated enclosed tanks, pass-through storage, an exterior shower, a power tongue jack, and a self-storing side awning — to name a few.
© Bigfoot RV
Bigfoot RV 25B17.5FB Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 4 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes, porcelain
The 25B17.5FB is a 17-foot trailer with the bed up front (hence FB in the name). This unit has tons of standard interior features including a bathroom with a shower and porcelain toilet, a galley with a 2-burner cooktop and microwave, a 2-way refrigerator and a stainless steel sink, as well as a 30,000-BTU furnace for chilly seasons. Options include air-conditioning, extra fans, a generator, a cargo box and a generator-ready package.
© Bigfoot RV
Bigfoot RV 25B17.5FB Floor Plan
The easy layout of the 25B17.5 FB includes a convertible dinette, a wet bath with a porcelain toilet and shower, and a front bed and closet. The Bigfoot also has exterior pass-through storage located up front beneath the bed.
© Casita
Casita Independence
Starting MSRP: $23,996
Dry Weight: 2,480 lbs.
Length: 17 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 8 in.
Sleeps: 2–4
Manufactured in Rice, Texas, Casita trailers have two-piece, insulated fiberglass shell construction. They come in five models, all 17 feet, and differ in floor plans and amenities. The unit rides on a 3-inch channel steel frame and 15-inch wheels. Independence add-ons include a furnace, roller shades, an aluminum-cased awning, an electric tongue jack, and an AGM battery.
© Casita
Casita Independence Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 2 in.
Bath: Yes, wet (Deluxe)
Toilet: Yes (Deluxe)
All five Casita models have the same starting MSRP for the Standard ($23,966) or Deluxe ($25,694) version. The Standard versions have more sleeping and storage space and optional air-conditioning, while the Deluxe versions have full wet baths and air-conditioning is standard equipment. The final price depends on floor plan and amenities chosen. The Independence has two permanent twin beds that have access to the kitchen and bath (Deluxe version) without disturbing the other person. The Standard version sleeps up to four with two additional bunk beds.
© Casita
Casita Independence Floor Plan
The Independence Deluxe floor plan features seats that convert to twin beds with easy access to other trailer amenities at night without climbing over a sleeping partner — a great layout feature new trailer owners will soon appreciate.
© Cortes Campers
Cortes Campers 17-Foot
Starting MSRP: $48,500
Dry Weight: 1,800 lbs.
Length: 17 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 8 in.
Sleeps: 2–3
A new company out of Ohio, Cortes Campers builds a stunningly sleek, lightweight trailer that looks more like a fiberglass boat than an RV. Due to construction techniques, these units require significant investment; however, they are engineered and built using composite materials (biaxial aluminized fiberglass) and without any wood, so in theory they should last for generations. The units ride on an aluminum frame with Timbren axleless suspension and 15-inch aluminum wheels.
© Cortes Campers
Cortes Campers 17-Foot Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 4 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes, porcelain
Thanks to its meticulous construction, a Cortes camper looks as amazing inside as it does outside. The 17-foot model includes fiberglass exterior and interior shells with marine-grade gelcoat. Standard features are plentiful and include Furrion air-conditioning, kitchen appliances, sound systems and power center. The trailer also has a Truma combination water heater / furnace, as well as a wardrobe and undercabinet lighting.
© Cortes Campers
Cortes Campers 17-Foor Floor Plan
The daytime floor plan of a Cortes 17 includes a side dinette, a large rear settee (both convert to beds), a full kitchen and a large wet bath up front, as well as ample closet space.
© Crossroads RV
Crossroads RV Zinger Lite ZR18BH
Starting MSRP: $16,000
Dry Weight: 3,362 pounds
Length: 21 feet
Width: 8.0 feet
Sleeps: 4-5
With an economical starting price for first-time RVers and families on a budget, the Crossroads Zinger Lite ZR18BH loads a lot of RV into an efficient package. The BH stands for bunk house, meaning the trailer will accommodate more than two people and has a bunk bed arrangement.
© Crossroads RV
Crossroads RV Zinger Lite ZR18BH Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes
Toilet: Yes
The Zinger website says the ZR18BH can sleep up to eight folks, although that might be stretching things a bit — we count five total if the 38-inch-wide bunks and dinette each hold one person (however, two small children might fit). The interior includes a queen-size bed, a dinette that converts to a bed, a dry bath and a galley with a 10 cubic foot refrigerator, a stainless steel sink with a stainless high-rise faucet and a microwave.
© Crossroads RV
Crossroads RV Zinger Lite ZR18BH Floor Plan
The floor plan of the ZR18BH has a queen-size bed as well as bunk beds and a converible dinette so the trailer accommodates up to five sleepers.
© Droplet
Droplet Teardrop
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $14,950
Dry Weight: 950 lbs.
Length: 13 ft. 6 in.
Width: 6 ft. 7 in.
Sleeps: 2
Another trailer designed in Canada, the Droplet teardrop is a great first-time RV in that it is light, maneuverable, affordable and innovative. The construction methods of a Droplet are inspired by boat and aircraft building; the trailer uses few screws and instead employs high-strength structural adhesives. The camper has closed-cell aluminum-laminated foam insulation for 4-season use. The trailer frame can be made from steel or aluminum. Droplet now offers an additional slightly larger model — the XL.
© Droplet
Droplet Teardrop Interior
Ceiling Height: 4 ft. 0 in.
Bath: No
Toilet: No
The Droplet interior has a queen-size mattress as its centerpiece. The rear-opening exterior galley features an acrylic countertop and backsplash, an available 12/24V slideout fridge, an available 2-burner propane stove, pull-out drawers for pots and pans, and a sink with a hand pump. And for those fortunate enough to be on the West Coast (or in Pennsylvania), Droplet also offers rentals so you can try before you buy — see website for details.
© Forest River
Forest River Ibex 20BHS
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $30,820
Dry Weight: 4,700 lbs.
Length: 23 ft.
Width: 8 ft
Sleeps: 5
The Ibex is a new line for Forest River, focusing on outdoor enthusiasts who need a trailer that functions as a basecamp. The Ibex line includes Azdel wall construction, a heated and enclosed underbelly, a solar charging system that includes a 1,000-watt inverter, a central vacuum system, a power tongue jack, Rhino racks, stainless steel appliances and panoramic front windows. The exterior also has an optional outside griddle and a standard 16-foot awning.
© Forest River
Forest River Ibex 20BHS Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
The Ibex 20BHS has a bunk house design with two oversized single bunk beds, a full-size convertible dinette as well as a residential queen bed to accommodate up to six sleepers. The 20BHS also features a large kitchen as well as a spacious dry bathroom with a vanity and separate shower stall.
© Forest River
Forest River Ibex 20BHS Floor Plan
The Ibex 20BHS has a slideout dinette that maximizes floor space, two bunk beds, a queen-size bed up front and a large dry bath (with vanity space) at the rear of the unit.
© Forest River
2021 Forest River R-pod 193
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $28,000
Dry Weight: 3,654 lbs.
Length: 22 ft. 11 in.
Width: 8 ft.
Sleeps: 4–6
Forest River is one of the largest U.S. manufacturers of RVs, motorhomes, travel trailers and toy haulers. The company builds the R-pod using quality materials including steel and aluminum frame construction and a one-sheet fiberglass roof to eliminate any seams (and therefore less chance of moisture intrusion). Want even more convincing? Forest River is a Berkshire Hathaway company — if Warren Buffet believes in this company and its trailers, customers can too.
© Forest River
2021 Forest River R-pod 193 Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, Dry
Toilet: Yes
Although it’s not the shortest R-pod, the 193 has a lot of amenities packed into a couple extra feet. The 193 has rear bunk beds and a Murphy bed up front. But the real draw of the 193 might be its full bathroom with separate shower. The kitchen has a 2-burner stove, a convection oven, a 6-cubic-foot refrigerator (Forest River says the largest in this class) and concrete-look countertops. Also standard on the R-pod 193 is an InterVac central vacuum system to keep trailer floors clean.
© Forest River
Forest River R-pod 193 Floor Plan
The R-pod 193 features a full bath at the rear as well as bunk beds. A slideout accommodates a closet and dinette, and the front of the unit has a clever sofa that converts to a queen-size Murphy bed to maximize day-use space.
© Happier Camper
Happier Camper
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $29,950
Dry Weight: 1,100 lbs.
Length: 13 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 11 in.
Sleeps: 4
A decidedly retro-hip unit built in California, the Happier Camper HC1 is a fiberglass tiny trailer, although its small stature and modular interior system make it a standout. The HC1 can sleep up to five in a pinch (a combo of kids and adults), has a solar panel integrated with the trailer roof and an interior height a bit more than 6 feet. In July 2021 Camping World announced a strategic investment in Happier Camper.
© Happier Camper
Happier Camper Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 1 in.
Bath: Yes, optional exterior shower
Toilet: Yes, optional cassette
Called the Adaptiv system, the interior of a Happier Camper is comprised of blocks that can be interchanged and moved around (even outdoors!) for a variety of trailer configurations to suit a camper’s needs. Camping World recently invested Happier Camper, specifically to distribute the Adaptiv system in van and camper conversions at Camping World SuperCenters. Happier Camper also offers the Traveler, which is larger than the HC1 at 14 feet of living length and it starts at $49,950.
© Happier Camper
Happier Camper HC1 Floor Plan
The Happier Camper HC1 offers a modular approach to the trailer’s interior design via the Adaptiv system, so numerous configurations are possible depending on needs.
© InTech
inTech RV Luna
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $21,350
Dry Weight: 1,850 lbs.
Length: 15 ft. 6 in.
Width: 7 ft. 10 in.
Sleeps: 2
InTech RV makes three ranges of teardrop-style trailers: Flyer, Luna and Sol. The entry-level Flyer trailers are the smallest versions, with the Sol being the largest teardrop style. Midway is the Luna range, which features the Base, Rover, and Platinum. The trailers have full aluminum cage frames. The Luna Rover (shown above) has a roof rack and off-road wheels and tires.
© InTech
inTech RV Luna Interior
Ceiling Height: 4 ft. 6 in.
Bath: No
Toilet: Yes, optional cassette
Lunas have doors on each side of the trailer, a front panoramic windshield, and LED lights at each door. The teardrop’s galley amenities include a sink with a residential-style faucet, a 2-burner LP stove and a slideout 12-volt refrigerator, as well as blue LED accent lighting. Other standard features include a Bluetooth stereo/DVD player, in-floor storage compartments and a 2-inch hitch receiver for a bike rack.
© InTech
inTech Luna Floor Plan
The Luna teardrop floor plan features an exterior galley with a sink. Inside, the trailer accommodates a queen-size mattress and has storage cabinets up front that can hold an optional cassette toilet.
© Jayco
2022 Jayco Jay Feather Micro 166FBS
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $ $31,500
Dry Weight: 3,975 lbs.
Length: 19 ft. 8 in.
Width: 8 ft. 5 in.
Sleeps: Up to 3
A relative newcomer since the company discontinued its Jay Sport line of pop-up trailers, the Micro line focuses on lightweight trailers that can be off-grid friendly yet towed by smaller vehicles. The Micro line length ranges from 13 to 23 feet. The 12SRK (Starts at $18,938) is the entry trailer with a sleeper sofa and a rear galley similar to a teardrop setup, but we prefer the 166FBS for its additional comfort features and space.
© Jayco
Jayco Jay Feather Micro 166FBS Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
The Micro line contains the lightest trailers Jayco currently makes. The 166FBS has a front bedroom and an actual bathroom, so it is much preferable to the bare-bones 12SRK, and the price reflects that. Standard features for the 2022 166FBS include a mandatory Customer Value Package (includes aluminum rims, air-conditioning, a power awning, a BlackStone griddle, brush guards, rear camera prep, among others), and a Solar Power Package that adds a 190W solar panel and a 30-amp controller. Other options include a convection microwave, an 8-cubic-foot refrigerator and a roof rack.
© Jayco
Jayco Jay Feather Micro 166FBS Floor Plan
The 166FBS floor plan has some unique features including a pantry and refrigerator conveniently located at the trailer door for easy access from outside. The dry bathroom beyond has a corner shower; a slideout contains a jackknife sofa with convenient tables.
© Jayco
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 7 183RB
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $23,010
Dry Weight: 3,270 lbs.
Length: 21 ft. 1 in.
Width: 7 ft. 1 in.
Sleeps: 3
The Jay Flight SLX 7 series offers a lot of trailer for the money. The 183RB has a slideout that increases interior space. Jayco also has a great website where prospective RVers can build and price trailers according to their particular needs. The SLX 7 183RB has a mandatory Customer Value Package that adds $3,300 to the price; it includes Goodyear tires, a 6-gallon DSI water heater, a bathroom skylight, outside speakers, pleated window shades, a power awning, a six-cubic-foot refrigerator, and much more.
© Jayco
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 7 183RB Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 5 in.
Bath: Dry, full
Toilet: Yes
The SLX7 183RB comes in two interior designs: Modern Farmhouse or Classic Cottage. The trailer features a queen-size bed, a full bathroom at the rear of the unit (including a tub/shower), and a slideout dinette that can sleep one adult or two kids. Options include a Blackstone griddle and jackknife sofa at no extra cost, a solar package, a roof-mounted A/C unit, fiberglass sidewalls and a Baja package that adds some off-road goodies.
© Jayco
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 7 183RB Floor Plan
The SLX 7 183RB has a rear bathroom with linen storage, a slideout dinette and a queen-size bed with overhead cabinets and a wardrobe.
© Keystone RV
Keystone RV Hideout 174RK
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $20,970
Dry Weight: 4,009 lbs.
Length: 21 ft. 5 in.
Width: 8 ft.
Sleeps: 4
The 174RK is a new floor plan in the Keystone Hideout series. Exterior features include aluminum sides, an LCI SolidStep, a power awning, a friction-hinge door, 4G LTE and Wi-Fi prep, pass-through exterior storage, Furrion backup and side camera prep, as well as solar prep and a 3-year limited structural warranty. And starting fall of 2021, all Keystone RVs will be equipped with Solarflex packages for better boondocking capabilities.
© Keystone
Keystone RV Hideout 174RK Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 9 in.
Bath: Dry
Toilet: Yes
Inside the 174RK, RV shoppers will find a rear kitchen (hence RK in the name) with a 2-burner range, a 6-cubic-foot refrigerator, a booth dinette on a slideout, and up front a queen-size Murphy bed and fold-down sofa. The 174RK also has a 20,000-BTU furnace and a 13,500-BTU air-conditioner.
© Keystone RV
Keystone Hideout 174RK Floor Plan
The 21-foot Hideout 174RK has a kitchen and bathroom at the rear of the unit, as well as a slideout dinette amidships . A key feature is a fold-down sofa that makes way for a queen-size Murphy bed at night.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 180BH
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $24,000
Dry Weight: 2,600 lbs.
Length: 20 ft. 11 in.
Width: 7 ft.
Sleeps: 4–5
A division of Thor Industries, the KZ line is marketed as lightweight, affordable travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers. The Sportsmen Classic 180BH packs a lot of amenities in a usable unit. The trailer has exterior lighted pass-through storage, a 9-foot awning and a friction-hinge door. An optional front picture window brings a lot of light into the master bed area, and all windows are tinted for privacy and cooling.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 180BH Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
Inside, the 180BH has bunk beds, a queen-size master bed and a convertible dinette so the trailer can sleep up to five adults. The kitchen includes a sink, an LP / electric refrigerator, a 2-burner stove and a microwave. Optional features include air-conditioning, a better refrigerator, a front picture window, a wireless backup camera, and a 24-inch TV with an inside/outside bracket.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 180BH Floor Plan
The180BH has a bunkhouse configuration as well as a dry bath (no sink), a 30-inch dinette and a queen-size bed up front.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Escape Hatch 17
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $21,000
Dry Weight: 3,235 lbs.
Length: 22 ft.
Width: 7 ft. 6 in.
Sleeps: 4
The KZ Escape line is marketed as ultralightweight, affordable and economical. The real draw of the Escape Hatch 17 is a large rear door that allows easy storage for bikes, kayaks, fire bowls and other larger campsite items in the dinette area while underway. When opened in camp, the large rear door also doubles as a small, covered spot for shade or refuge during a light drizzle. An off-grid package adds roof-mounted solar, a 1,000-watt inverter with 110-volt outlets, electronically controlled heated holding tanks, a griddle and off-road wheels and tires.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Escape Hatch 17 Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
The interior of the E17 has tons of storage throughout the trailer. The unit includes a convertible dinette at the rear hatch that can also be U-shaped. A full-height pantry can store all kinds of dry goods (upright cereal boxes!) and it even has a clever space for a broom. The kitchen includes a 2-burner stove, a large refrigerator/freezer as well as a large sink and prep surface; the front bedroom has a queen-size bed. The large dry bathroom features a step-in shower with plenty of space to towel off and change clothes.
© KZ RV
KZ RV Escape Hatch 17 Floor Plan
Packed with features, the Escape Hatch 17 has a rear dinette, a partial dry bath (no sink) and a queen-size bed up front. Note the flip-up rear hatch door that offers plenty of air and access.
© Lance Camper
Lance 1475
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $41,706
Dry Weight: 2,600 lbs.
Length: 19 ft 8 in.
Width: 7 ft. 3/8 in.
Sleeps: 2–3
Lance campers have a reputation for high quality, and it shows. This spiffy trailer has a lot of clever exterior and interior features. The 1475 has Adzel composite walls and block foam insulation, as well as an exterior wash station and LED lighting throughout. Many options are available, including a slideout to increase floor (and sleeping) space; it contains a sofa bed instead of two captain’s chairs. Other options are an electric tongue jack and a powered awning with LED lighting.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Lance 1475 Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
A wealth of standard features make the entry-level 1475 far from bare bones. The kitchen has a 3-burner high-output range with an oven and microwave as well as a 5-cubic-foot refrigerator. A queen-size bed is located at the front of the trailer, and three windows in the space provide almost panoramic views outdoors. The trailer also manages to pack a lot of storage solutions into its tiny footprint.
© Lance
Lance 1475 Floor Plan
Another trailer with convenient configuration for daytime use when out of doors, the 1475 has many amenities including a rear bathroom with a corner shower.
© Little Guy RV
Little Guy Trailers Mini Max
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $34,000
Dry Weight: 2,320 lbs.
Length: 17 ft. 2 in.
Width: 6 ft. 9 in.
Sleeps: 2
A division of Xtreme Outdoors, Little Guy Trailers is one of the “big little trailer” companies in operation today. Little Guy trailers are sold throughout the U.S. as well as in Canada, Australia, Chile, Colombia and South Korea. In America models are the MyPod, Little Guy Mini Max and Little Guy Max. The Mini Max is a popular teardrop molded in fiberglass that can be towed by midsize vehicles equipped to do so.
© Little Guy
Little Guy Trailers Mini Max Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 0 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes
The popular Little Guy Mini Max has a traditional teardrop shape, weighs less than 2,500 pounds, sleeps two on dual twin beds or a queen-size mattress, has hardwood cabinetry, a 2-burner stove, a refrigerator, a dinette set, a furnace, a wet bath with a toilet and shower, a microwave and air-conditioning — to name a few features. These Little Guys really let a person camp with creature comforts and flair.
© Xtreme Outdoors
Little Guy Trailers Mini Max Floor Plan
This Mini Max has a plethora of features packed into its 17-foot space, including a large rear dinette that converts to either a queen-size bed or two twin beds. The kitchen and bath are up front goes here
© NuCamp
nuCamp TAB 400
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $39,968
Dry Weight: 2,956 pounds
Length: 18 ft. 3 in.
Width: 7 ft. 6 in.
Sleeps: 2–3
The TAB 400 is the largest, most spacious teardrop trailer nuCamp offers. The company made a few improvements for the 2021 model year, including moving the axle forward so more SUV owners can tow the teardrop without worrying so much about tongue weight. The 2021 TAB also receives a sturdy aluminum diamond-plated front LP / battery / storage tub that replaces the previous one made of plastic. The TAB 400 also has a new Nautilus water management system. A Boondock version of the trailer features a heavier axle, a solar panel, off-road tires, and a Boondock entry step.
© NuCamp
nuCamp TAB 400 Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 7 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes
Inside, the Tab 400 has a distinctive Euro vibe that pleases the eye. A Convenience Package features Alde Flow endless hot water and an Alde heating system. The kitchen has two refrigerator options: 2-way or 3-way. The 2-burner stove now has a pushbutton ignite. The rear bedroom area has a queen-size mattress beneath a Stargazer window. The wet bath amidships is nothing short of amazing. Up front, the dinette can be converted to a sleeping area for a single person. The 400 also has LED lighting throughout, ambient light strips, USB ports and plenty of clever storage nooks.
© NuCamp
NuCamp TAB 400 Floor Plan
The TAB 400 has lots of overhead storage, a conveneint dinette up front, as well as a wet bath across from the galley, which features a unique round stove.
© Oliver Travel Trailers
Oliver Travel Trailers Legacy Elite
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $ $57,000
Dry Weight: 3,700 lbs.
Length: 18 ft. 5 in.
Width: 6 ft. 6 in.
Sleeps: 2–3
Oliver trailers are high-quality units. As the “entry-level” trailer, the Legacy Elite is a thing of beauty. Oliver trailers are built to exacting standards and have amazing double-hull fiberglass shells that make them four-season comfortable. The list of standard features is long and the company website has full details, although a few notable features include a full galley, a rear dining table and a side dinette, a 10-foot retractable awning and a monitoring system for liquid and battery levels.
© Oliver Travel Trailers
Oliver Travel Trailers Legacy Elite Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, wet
Toilet: Yes
The interiors of Oliver trailers are pristine thanks to the smooth, white fiberglass walls and modular units. The Legacy Elite has a wet bath with a molded vanity and toilet, and the trailer can sleep up to three people or seat six. All cabinetry has dovetail joinery (no staples!) and there are full surround lighted overhead storage compartments as well as a lighted closet.
© Oliver Travel Trailers
Oliver Travel Trailers Legacy Elite Floor Plan
The floor plan of the Ollie is user-friendly and versatile, featuring both rear and side dinettes as well as a wet bath up front.
© Oregon TrailR
Oregon Trail’R FronTear
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $$14,000
Dry Weight: About 1,100 pounds
Length: 12 ft. 2 in.
Width: 6 ft. 6 in.
Sleeps: 2
With its pioneering name and Pacific Northwest location, Oregon Trail’R is owned and operated by two talented brothers from Southern Oregon who have years of fabrication experience. The company’s trailers get built on three platforms; the FronTear is the company’s flagship teardrop. This trailer is great for adventurous singles and couples ready to leave tent camping behind. Constructed primarily of Baltic Birch with an aluminum skin, each hand-built FronTear is a tribute to craftsmanship and quality.
© Oregon Trailr
Oregon Trail’R FronTear Interior
Ceiling Height: 4 ft.
Bath: No
Toilet: No
The FronTear is the brothers’ take on the classic teardrop with a refined art deco flair. And although the interior can sleep two adults off the ground, teardrop camping is still an exercise in minimalism. The FronTear’s interior design has storage closets and cubbies as well as some drawers and cargo netting. A removable exterior side table can be used when cooking at the exterior galley. The rear galley is a highly detailed, functional space and can be configured with appliances and features for a particular cook’s needs. The galley also has a stainless steel countertop and small sink, as well as accent lighting throughout.
© Palomino RV
Palamino Puma Ultra Lite XLE 16BHX
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $22,091
Dry Weight:
Length: 21 ft. 6 in.
Width: 7 ft.
Sleeps: 4–5
The Puma XLE 16BHX exterior trailer features include a powder-coated frame, a friction-hinged door, an Alpha Superflex roof with an 18-year warranty, a Darco-wrapped underbelly and large frameless windows. A required Ultra Lite package includes front diamond plate, an aluminum double step, an outside shower, an electric awning, a power tongue jack, backup camera prep and a spare tire and carrier.
© Palomino RV
Palamino Puma Ultra Lite XLE 16BHX Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
The Puma XLE 16BHX interior has a bunk house configuration featuring two bunk beds, a convertible dinette as well as a queen-size master bed. The trailer also has plenty of overhead cabinetry in the master bed, kitchen and dining areas. The mandatory Ultra Lite package includes a few interior mods such as a stainless steel microwave and range hood, an AM/FM Bluetooth stereo and a 13,500-BTU air-conditioner.
© Palamino RV
Palamino Puma Ultra Lite XLE 16BHX Floor Plan
The XLE 16BHX is a bunkhouse design featuring a queen-size bed up front, a dinette amidships and a dry bath and two bunk beds at the rear of the unit.
© Rustic Trail
Rustic Trail Teardrop Campers Kodiak Stealth
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $13,950
Dry Weight: 1,525 lbs.
Length: 13 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 8 in.
Sleeps: 2
Sold on words such as affordable, handcrafted and easy to tow, Rustic Trail Teardrop Campers come in four models ranging in starting price from the Koala Bear ($7,950) to the Kodiak Stealth ($13,950). All trailer models include a 3,500-pound frame, electric brakes and 15-inch wheels including a spare. A family business that started in 2010, RTTC is always improving its products and features. In keeping with the “rustic” aspect of the company name, the trailers do not have bathrooms or galleys.
© Rustic Trail
Rustic Trail Teardrop Campers Kodiak Stealth Interior
Ceiling Height: 5 ft.
Bath: No
Toilet: No
Rustic Trail’s extensive, easily navigated website displays all trailers, accessories and options in an easy to build format. Available trailer options include a 5,000 BTU air-conditioner, a roof rack, front rack or tool box, a deluxe MaxxAir fan, an outside table and aluminum rims, to name a few. An upgraded cabinet / dinette package (shown above) adds $3,000. One note though: Since these trailers are handmade at a small company, lead time is now 24 months from date of order. Frustrating, but also a testament to the products and desirability of Rustic Trail Teardrop Campers.
© Scamp
Scamp Trailers 13
Approx. Starting Retail Price: Contact for Pricing
Dry Weight: 1,200–1,500 lbs.
Length: 13 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 8 in.
Sleeps: 2–4
Built since the 1970s and billed as the world-famous fiberglass trailer, Scamps are great travel trailers for first-time RVers. Scamps come in lengths of 13 , 16 and 19 feet. The trailers are built to order and sold factory direct through a dealership in Backus, Minnesota. The 13-foot layout is of course the lightest and most maneuverable of the three.
© Scamp
Scamp Trailers 13 Interior
Ceiling Height: 7ft. 6 in.
Bath: Yes, optional wet
Toilet: Yes
The 13-foot Scamp, which can be towed by most 4-cylinder vehicles, features a 2-piece fiberglass shell, full walk-in height, a screen door, sleeps 2–4 people and has a dining area that seats four and converts into a bed, and a sofa that converts into two bunk beds. A second layout has a wet bath up front that replaces the sofa / bunks. Options include a powered roof vent, air-conditioning, a furnace, refrigerator, an awning and more.
© Scamp
Scamp Trailers 13 Floor Plan
The Scamp 13 has two layouts — with and without a bathroom. The floor plan with the bathroom (shown above) replaces the sofa / bunks and thus limits sleeping arrangements to two.
© Starcraft
Starcraft Autumn Ridge 172FB
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $17,130
Dry Weight: 3,020 lbs.
Length: 19 ft. 3 in.
Width: 8 ft.
Sleeps: 3–4
The Autumn Ridge 172FB from Starcraft can be a great first trailer, thanks to its economical price of entry and the many amenities packed into its compact footprint. The 172FB has a fully walkable roof, a 9-foot power awning with LED lighting, exterior pass-through storage with magnetic door catches, rearview camera prep, and residential vinyl flooring.
© Starcraft
Starcraft Autumn Ridge 172FB Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 9 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
Inside, the Autumn Ridge 172FB feature a queen-size bed up front (hence the FB in the name) as well as a convertible dinette that sleeps one or two more folks, depending on size. Amazingly this economical trailer features a full bathroom with a step-in shower, and an adjacent wardrobe. The kitchen has an 8-cubic-foot refrigerator, a microwave, a 3-burner stove with hood, and an undermount sink with a residential-style faucet.
© Starcraft
Starcraft Autumn Ridge 172FB Floor Plan
The Autumn Ridge floor plan is efficient with a full dry bathroom near the door and a convertible dinette directly opposite the galley. The trailer also has a large wardrobe as well as an abundance of overhead cabinets.
© TAXA
TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $18,550
Dry Weight: 1,310 lbs.
Length: 12 ft. 10 in.
Width: 6 ft. 7 in.
Sleeps: 2
TAXA Outdoors manufactures seven “habitats” from the tent-only Wooly Bear ($11,800) to the Mantis Overland ($50,990). Towable by many 4-cylinder vehicles, the TigerMoth has a unique, large side hatch that creates a “corner window” effect, letting the outdoors into the trailer. The TigerMoth’s large rear pull-out offers a versatile workspace for cooking. Flush with innovative features incorporated with intelligent design, the TigerMoth can go 7-plus days off-grid thanks to its integrated electrical systems.
© TAXA Outdoors
TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth Interior
Ceiling Height: 4 ft. 7 in.
Bath: No
Toilet: No
Standard features for the teardrop-like 2-person TigerMoth are extensive and include Kynar-painted and UV-treated aluminum panels, tempered tinted windows, a torsion axle suspension with electric brakes, wiring for solar panels, a slideout kitchen with stove, foam-core interior walls, LED lighting, a single-speed vent fan and USB charging ports. Options include Thule load bars, screen doors and awning, a tongue-mounted tool box, an air-conditioner and a rooftop tent.
© Taxa
TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth Floor Plan
Although the TigerMoth is not a full-height trailer, it packs a ton of usable space into a small footprint. Interior features include a cafe table, a full-size bed and side and rear doors that provide the corner window effect.
© Vistabule
Vistabule
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $21,995
Dry Weight: 1,330 lbs. (approx.)
Length: 14 ft.
Width: 6 ft. 10 in.
Sleeps: 2
A teardrop travel trailer with an appropriate name thanks to its large picture window up front, the Vistabule puts a twist on standard teardrop design. In contrast to most teardrops that have the taller portion of the unit up front (nearest the trailer tongue) and then tapering to the rear, Vistabules reverse the shape and put the taller portion at the rear of the trailer and then the living space tapers toward the front. This design offers a forward-facing orientation.
© Vistabule
Vistabule Interior
Ceiling Height: 3 ft. 7 in.
Bath: No
Toilet: No
Vistabule configuration starts with a base trailer containing a plethora of standard feature (flip-up sofa bed, side tables integrated into the door window coverings, a Maxxair fan, porthole windows, onboard battery charger, to name a few). Buyers can customize their trailers via four option groupings: Galley, Interior, Climate Control and Trailer. Vistabules also have a clever, convenient feature not found in most teardrops: a pass-through from the rear galley up front to the living space.
© Winnebago
Winnebago HIKE H170S
Approx. Starting Retail Price: $29,605
Dry Weight: 3,502 lbs.
Length: 20 ft. 7.5 in.
Width: 7 ft.
Sleeps: 3
Ending this list with a well-known name in Rving seems as appropriate as starting it with one. Winnebago offers the HIKE series for folks who like to venture off the beaten path. The 170S is a relatively new model featuring an exoskeleton design with a one-piece fiberglass roof and sidewalls of fiberglass / Azdel. The exoskeleton accommodates aftermarket roof racks for hauling kayaks and other bulky items. The HIKE also has LED lighting, a tongue box, a hitch receiver, a power tongue jack and 15-inch aluminum wheels with off-road tires.
© Winnebago
Winnebago HIKE H170S Interior
Ceiling Height: 6 ft. 5 in.
Bath: Yes, dry
Toilet: Yes
The HIKE H170S interior is designed for rugged use, featuring water-resistant linoleum flooring and lots of overhead storage. The trailer has a slideout galley (shown above on the 172BH ) with a Dometic refrigerator, convection oven and overhead cabinetry, as well as light Euro-style materials and surfaces. All HIKE models have a dry bathroom with a shower, which is a big plus after a day spent adventuring outdoors.
© Winnebago
