Our Favorite Camper Trailers for Road Trips

Touring the country is a magnificent and popular adventure. Using a camper trailer is an economical way of getting around for long and short journeys. It can be less expensive than hotels, requires less maintenance and upkeep than a motorhome, and the tow vehicle can be used for trail and around-the-city duties.

Well-constructed trailers allow us to venture through and settle in closer to nature, away from everyday distractions. Setups with solar panels, battery power, water tanks, and propane help us go even further off-grid and stay untethered longer.

After testing a wide variety of camper trailers, our team narrowed it down to our favorite designs that suit a wide variety of trip goals and needs. If you’re looking for a more built-out collection, check out our Best Rugged Camper Trailers round-up.

TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth

Hauling a camper trailer with conventional comforts is a balancing act when the places you adventure to are among the toughest to reach. Fortunately for exploratory travelers, the TigerMoth Overland Edition, made by Taxa Outdoors, is a cozy, functional, haul-anywhere trailer without being high-maintenance, heavy, or difficult to maneuver.

One of our favorite features is that the sleeping area converts into a dining area, workspace, or group hangout. The swing-up side door creates great airflow when you’re sitting at the kitchen table and expands the space while providing protection from the elements. 

We also dig the axleless suspension and 1.5 feet of ground clearance. For families, the ceiling is outfitted for a rooftop tent. Read all the nitty-gritty details in our full review of the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Overland Camper Trailer.

While this is the mid-tier, you can opt for a standard TigerMoth trailer (~$20K) or a premium off-road TigerMoth X ($25,750).

Specs

• Dry weight: 1,458 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 2,400 lbs.
• Exterior length: 12 ft., 9 in.
• Exterior height: 7 ft.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 7 in.
• Sleeps: 2
• Price: ~$25,000

Pros

• Convertible, adaptive space
• A fair amount of storage room
• Solid, functional window and bug shades

Cons

• The bed padding isn’t plush or innately comfortable
• It lacks an outdoor shower and sink
• The awning isn’t durable

Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS

Winnebago’s Micro Minnie model is a luxurious choice for family or group trips to haul behind an SUV or half-ton truck. The layout includes an easy-to-use Murphy bed with a regular queen-size mattress and windows for cross-ventilation.

Beneath, the pass-through storage has an insulated door, which is key with the bed directly above. The dinette has a push-down table that converts into another bed.

The kitchen is complete with a microwave, refrigerator, and three-burner cooktop. The deep barn sink can be capped off with a cutting board that sits flush with the counter. Another flip-up bunk bed creates additional storage for bulky equipment like bikes. And the bathroom features tons of storage space for linens and ample shower headroom.

Specs

• Dry weight: 4,500 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 7,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 25 ft., 5 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 5 in. (with A/C)
• Exterior width: 7 ft.
• Sleeps: 5
• Price: $41,230

Pros

• 44 cu. ft. of exterior storage
• Power awning with LED lights to easily enjoy outdoor space
• 15-inch lift and off-road tires
• LED exterior lights
• Only 7 feet wide

Cons

• Lightweight but still heavier to haul compared to ultralight trailers for smaller groups
• Pricier

Off Grid Trailers Expedition 3.0

This off-road trailer is comfortable, functional, and durable for boondocking in rugged environments. The high-density, queen-size memory foam mattress is welcomed after a long day outdoors.

The exterior storage bins are powder-coated for durability, and they have lockable compression latches that block dust. The water tank boasts a 31-gallon capacity. It has 23 cubic feet of interior storage and 13 cubic feet of storage in the rear cabinet.

We appreciate the 55L fridge-freezer that pulls out. The dropdown dual-burner stove and deep sink are smart, streamlined designs. The sink has a cover to convert into a prep counter. It’s also a luxury to have hot water on demand and an outdoor showerhead to rinse off the grime.

Note: You can opt for upgrades that swap out the standard bed for a convertible bed-to-couch or add a rooftop tent.

Specs

• Dry weight: 1,700 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 3,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 13.8 ft.
• Exterior height: 6.6 ft.
• Exterior width: 7.4 ft.
• Sleeps: 2
• Price: Starts at $34,999

Pros

• Timbren axleless suspension and all-terrain tires are dependable for off-road travel
• The trailer is built with aluminum and a powder-coated steel frame for durability
• 23 Zero Peregrine 270 awning provides 270 degrees of outdoor protection
• Rooftop storage bin for firewood or other items
• 1.75 ft. of ground clearance

Cons

• The pantry is located at the back, while the kitchen is on the side

Black Series HQ19

The Black Series HQ19 is one of the only full-size tow-behind trailers we’ve tested that truly can handle off-road adventures, plus there’s a bunch of space for gear. We loved the Polyblock hitch, which has 360-degree articulation, and the suspension.

Overall, the build is luxuriously comfortable. It features a queen-size bed and loads of storage for skis, ski boots, bike pumps, packs, camp chairs, a battery generator, and more.

Our cross-country travel was cozy thanks to the oven, washing machine, fridge, freezer, outdoor kitchen, dinette, oversize windows, robust solar system, full-size stall shower, and hot water. Check out our full review of the Black Series HQ19.

Specs

• Dry weight: 6,122 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 10,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 26 ft.
• Exterior height: 10 ft.
• Exterior width: 7.5 ft.
• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $59,899

Pros

• Tows smoothly on the highway and off-road with excellent suspension
• Tons of storage space
• Includes a washing machine

Cons

• Lacks USB plugs inside
• The fridge is propane or plug-in only versus solar- or battery-powered

Timberleaf Classic Off-Road Teardrop Trailer

To reach remote trailheads with this Timberleaf Classic Teardrop Trailer, we’re drawn to the off-road package with the Timbren Axleless suspension and 4-inch lift for a 1.5-foot clearance. The setup also boasts all-terrain tires, an articulating hitch, and jeep-style fenders with corner steps.

Considering aesthetics, the design is top-notch. It has fine woodworking throughout the exterior kitchen galley and the interior storage cubbies around the queen-size bed. This is a great choice for single travelers or couples.

Specs

• Dry weight: 1,500 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 3,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 14 ft.
• Exterior height: 6 ft.
• Exterior width: 83-85 in.
• Sleeps: 2
• Price: $27,950

Pros

• Large skylight in the cabin
• Well-crafted kitchen cabinets with various storage options
• Seven 12V LED lights total

Cons

• Condensation builds inside the trailer overnight (so we keep rags handy)
• No floor indoor space for the dog’s bed
• Not much cargo space for gear

nüCamp RV Tab 320 Teardrop Camper

This classic teardrop design is suitable for weekend adventures or longer road trips. The nüCamp RV Tab 320 Teardrop camper has a galley kitchen, wet bath, and dinette that converts into a comfortable sleep space that can be split or full.

From the windows to the appliances and cabinetry, this camper is well-built and super-easy to tow behind a medium-size SUV or pickup truck. We also appreciated the off-road tires and the easy-to-clean floor.

Specs

• Dry weight: 1,946 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 2,900 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15 ft., 3 in.
• Exterior height: 7 ft., 8 in.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 8 in.
• Sleeps: 2
• Price: Starts at $31,000

Pros

• Optional hot water system and central A/C
• Two-burner glass-top stove
• Storage doors stay closed while on the go

Cons

• The wet bath is a little tight
• Not ideal for taller folks above 5’10”

Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB

After testing the Flying Cloud 23FB on a turkey hunting trip, we found it was a great size for two friends or partners on a road trip. The Flying Cloud ($85,300) features an indoor shower, bathroom, kitchen, and dining table. Every component on this Airstream felt sturdy, from the door latches to the light switches.

The digital thermostat and furnace were super-responsive, and the stereo was solid. The build also managed temperature swings, keeping us cool in the day’s heat and warm at night. Read our full review of the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB.

Specs

• Dry weight: 4,806 lbs. (with gas and batteries)
• Max capacity (GVWR): 6,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 23 ft., 9 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 9 in. (with A/C)
• Exterior width: 8 ft.
• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $106,400

Pros

• Queen-size bed with a pillow-top memory foam mattress
• Optional rooftop solar package
• Heavy-duty deadbolt on front door
• Microwave in kitchen

Cons

• Windows can be challenging to open
• Space feels a bit tight with three adults

Things to Consider When You Invest in a Trailer

Weight

The dry weight of the camper trailers listed in our guide ranges from 1,458 to 6,122 pounds. That weight typically excludes water, gas, batteries, or additional accessories like rooftop tents and racks. Pay attention to the dry weight of the camper so you can determine whether the build is within the payload of your vehicle.

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum total weight the trailer can safely weigh. The GVWR includes the dry weight, also known as the curb weight, plus the weight of people, accessories, supplies, and all your outdoor gear.

The GVWR of these trailer picks ranges from 2,200 to 10,000 pounds. You’ll need the GVWR so that you can calculate how much equipment you can safely haul in the trailer on the road, as well as how many people can sleep inside.

Clearance and Tires

If you plan to drive through rugged terrain that requires 4WD, you should invest in a trailer with generous ground clearance and off-road tires, and consider an articulating hitch to prevent toppling on uneven terrain. Sturdier tires can also provide better traction on slick roads with snow or rain.

The ground clearance of the off-road models on our list ranges from 1.5 to 1.9 feet on the Timberleaf Classic Teardrop Trailer, Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0, and Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Overland.

When we take a close look at tires, the TigerMoth Overland is outfitted with the 225/75R16 (Cooper Tires Discoverer AT3 LT), offering a tread guard against rocks and gravel, extreme durability, and solid grip on wet roads or trails.

By comparison, the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB has Goodyear Endurance ST225/75R15 Tires, which are great for towing stability and a high load capacity but are not ideal for rough terrain.

Sleep Space

At a minimum, our favorite compact travel trailers offer space for two people to sleep. A portion of these designs includes cabins with a nonconvertible queen-size bed. Other trailer designs offer couch-to-bed conversion options, such as the TigerMoth Overland or Off Grid Trailers Expedition, or a structure that supports a rooftop tent.

The larger travel trailers on our list feature a range of comfortable overnight options. The designs range from daytime couches and fold-down Murphy beds to bunk beds to dinettes that convert into beds. If you’re taller or wider, pay attention to the specific bed size.

For instance, the Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS has a full queen-size mattress, whereas some trailers will have a narrower queen-size mattress. The Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS also has a bunk bed that can fold up, so more space is available for storage when the bed isn’t needed.

Also, not all mattresses are created equal. The pad in the TigerMoth Overland is firm with no cushion or give. However, the Off Grid Trailers Expedition features a high-density memory foam mattress, and the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB has a pillow-top memory foam mattress.

Lounge

A handful of the tidiest travel trailers have indoor space that’s solely dedicated to a queen-size bed and cubbies. Other tight trailers have beds that convert into a daytime couch or even have a table that can be easily installed. We like that even when the couch is pulled down into a bed in the TigerMoth Overland, there’s still a space to pull our shoes on and off.

Many trailers include an awning, which becomes a gem when you consider how much more space everyone will have to lounge out of the sun and rain at camp. Larger travel trailers typically have indoor sofas and dining tables that often convert into a bed.

Kitchen

Pricier, larger travel trailers have indoor kitchens with a range of features. Inside, you’ll often find a microwave, refrigerator, freezer, oven, sink, two- or three-burner stove, cabinets, countertop space, and dining table.

More compact, less expensive travel trailers have outdoor kitchens, and there’s a variety of unique designs. A galley organizes the kitchen area on the back of the rig, like on the Timberleaf Classic Off-Road Teardrop Trailer.

Other designs have pull-out drawers or fold-down units with the pantry, stove, sink, or countertop like the Off Grid Trailers Expedition or the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer.

Bathroom

The spacious travel trailers on our list have indoor bathrooms with a toilet and a stand-up shower. Tinier travel trailers don’t have an indoor bathroom, but a handful have an outdoor shower head with warm-water hookups like the Off Grid Trailers Expedition.

If your camper trailer doesn’t have an indoor bathroom and you’re posted up in a remote place, be sure to research that location’s human waste and Leave No Trace requirements — whether that means digging a cathole or using a WAG bag.

Interior Storage

Interior storage space is great for organizing apparel, cosmetics, electronics, and other comforts. Inside, travel trailers often feature storage space like shelves and cubbies, but not all offer a latch system to hold items in place while driving around.

There can also be storage space beneath the mattress. The Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer had an aluminum interior frame, which extended onto the doors, with numerous holes to clip carabiners, hang dish towels, or slide in hangers to dry gear like our dense wetsuits.

Larger travel trailers usually have ample storage space, including cubbies beneath sofas, cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen, and even hanging closets.

Exterior Storage

Outside, tidy travel trailers can also have a toolbox, tongue box, or racks for storing gear and equipment. Large travel trailers also often have storage compartments facing outward, which sometimes include pass-through storage space.

Doors and Windows

We really appreciate it when the doors and windows are built to last in a travel trailer. One of the most unique door configurations is on the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer. There’s a back door that swings open and a second door that opens upward like the gullwing doors on the DMC DeLorean in Back to the Future. Nearly the entire wall serves as a sturdy canopy.

Windows are great for allowing ample light and can help a space feel bigger, but shades are equally important for privacy and to block out the light of the full moon or campground lamp. Slide-down shades can black out the inside of the trailer, and bug screens can enable airflow regardless of bug activity. It’s also nice to have windows that can be locked when they’re cracked.

Electric, Solar, Gas, and Water

You’ll need to closely consider how much energy and resources you’ll need between trips to a gas station, store, or an overnight stay with shore power.

Even if you don’t plan to charge your laptop or watch television — an option in larger travel trailers — it’s nice to have battery power. The battery can run indoor and outdoor LED lights around the kitchen and doors, as well as the roof exhaust fan — and it can charge up phones. Many travel trailers feature a prewired solar inlet to get an energy boost off solar panels, too.

Each trailer will have a specific capacity for gas and water carry. For instance, the Off Grid Trailers Expedition water tank boasts a 31-gallon capacity. The Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth holds one 5-gallon jerry can.

In contrast, larger travel trailers have a greater water capacity, in great part to manage the bathroom. The Black Series HQ19 comes with a 50-gallon water tank for supply, a 26-gallon gray water tank for collection (for all used water except from the toilet), and a 26-gallon black water tank for all toilet waste.

Often, trailers include an indoor smoke detector, fire extinguisher, and carbon monoxide detector.