TOWABLE RVS PROVIDE the adventure of camping with the comforts of home — and they can be one of the most affordable ways to get into the RV lifestyle. While you might think you need a larger budget for a motorhome or a heavy-duty truck to pull a camper, that’s not the case. Can an SUV pull a bumper pull camper? You bet! There are plenty of SUV-friendly travel trailers that offer a great entry point for RVers who aren’t ready to commit to a large truck. Keep your car, skip the storage fees, and camp in comfort.
Key Takeaways
- Most SUVs are rated to tow between 1,500 and 5,000 pounds — enough for a wide range of bumper pull campers without any truck required.
- Always match the trailer’s GVWR (its fully loaded weight) to your SUV’s tow rating, not just the dry weight listed on the sticker.
- The best SUV-towable RVs combine lightweight construction, a small footprint, and full RV amenities so you never have to sacrifice comfort for convenience.
Top Small Tow Behind RVs for SUVs
Now for the fun part. Let’s dive into some of the best bumper pull campers you can tow with your SUV. These picks span off-road builds, ultra-compact teardrops, all-electric compacts, and family-friendly travel trailers. No matter your goals, there’s a bumper pull camper for every traveler.
Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro: Best Lineup for Any SUV Tow Rating
Specs
- Length: 14’11”-21’2”
- Dry Weight: 1,728-4,233 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 765-1,488 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 2-6
Forest River’s Rockwood Geo Pro fleet offers over a dozen floor plans across a wide range of weights and lengths. From the featherlight G11LE at just 1,728 lbs and 14’11” all the way up to the double axle G20FK at around 4,200 lbs. Whatever your SUV’s tow rating, there’s almost certainly a Geo Pro that fits it comfortably.
The G11LE deserves a special callout. At 1,728 lbs dry weight and a GVWR of just 2,695 lbs, it’s one of the lightest fully equipped, walkable travel trailers on the market. This makes it towable by a wide range of crossovers and smaller SUVs.
Images by Forest River
Other mid-size SUV towables in this lineup include the G13LE and G15TB. The G13LE is a lightweight camper that comfortably sleeps for. The G15TB, Rockwood’s self-proclaimed “Swiss Army Knife”, includes two twin beds that convert into a king-size bed. For families, the G19DBH bunkhouse and G20BH bring sleeping for up to six in a single axle package.
Every Geo Pro is built on a 6-sided, full-aluminum frame with a fully composite wall construction and a fully laminated roof. This makes these campers genuinely durable for lightweight trailers. Standard features across the lineup include solar prep (roof and side ports), backup camera prep, Dexter® axles, power awning, and a power vent. The Sunset Seeker Package on larger models adds an outdoor griddle and outside shower. If you want a lineup that lets you match the trailer precisely to your tow vehicle rather than the other way around, the Geo Pro is the place to start.
Learn more about Rockwood Geo Pro.
Keystone Coleman 13-Series: Best All-Electric Compact for Any SUV
Specs
- Length: 15’11”
- Dry Weight: 2,408-3,000 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 974-1,092 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
If your SUV has a modest tow rating or you want maximum flexibility in your tow vehicle choice, the Keystone Coleman 13-series is hard to beat. At just 15’11” across all four floor plans and dry weights starting at 2,408 lbs, the 13-series is one of the lightest fully equipped travel trailers on the market. The best part? The all-electric setup means no propane tanks to manage.
Four distinct floor plans give you a clear choice based on how you camp. The 13R is the lightest at 2,408 lbs and is designed for couples. It features a rear bath, bar-top seating, and an electric fireplace.
The 13B is a family-friendly bunkhouse at 2,526 lbs. The queen bed and twin bunks allow you to comfortably sleep up to four. This camper tops out at a 3,500-lb GVWR and a manageable 352-lb hitch weight.
The 13S steps up to 2,800 lbs with a corner bed, flip-down twin bunk, jackknife sofa, and sidewall AC.
The 13T is the standout of the group! This super-compact toy hauler includes a Murphy bed, a pop-out tent sleeping area, a double-door 12V fridge, and off-road tires. All of that in a camper under 16 feet!
Images by Keystone
Every 13-series model runs entirely on electricity — induction cooktop, electric fireplace, 110V refrigerator — making them perfect for RV parks and campgrounds with full hookups. The all-electric design is also great for travelers who don’t want the extra tongue weight of propane tanks. Shared features across all four models include a power awning, wet bath, 28-gallon fresh water tank, and interior and exterior LED lighting.
For families or couples stepping into the RV world for the first time, the Coleman 13-series offers an accessible, low-stress entry point in an impressively compact package.
Learn more about Keystone Coleman.
Bontrager Outdoors Drifter 10ROK: Best Ultra-Lightweight Teardrop
Specs
- Length: 13’2″
- Dry Weight: 1,700 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 1,440 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 2
Towable by virtually any SUV or midsize crossover, the Bontrager Outdoors Drifter 10ROK is the lightest of the list. This bumper pull camper comes in at just 13’2″ long, 1,700 lbs dry, and a featherlight 140 lb hitch weight. Despite its compact teardrop profile, it carries an impressive 1,440 lbs of cargo capacity, giving you plenty of room for gear without stressing your tow vehicle.
Don’t let the small size fool you into thinking this is a stripped-down camper. The 10ROK is built on a Norco Huck-bolted steel mainframe with a torsion-flex 3,000-lb independent suspension axle and a max-clearance design, oversized all-terrain tires on aluminum alloy wheels, and an undermounted hidden spare.
It’s off-road capable, and its roof rails let you stack kayaks, bikes, or additional gear on top. The Drifter line is the upgraded version of Bontrager’s Compact lineup, adding features like laminate construction, a 13,500 BTU wall-mounted A/C, a rear outdoor kitchen with a sliding griddle, a 12V fridge, and an outside shower.
Inside, two 4-inch quilted mattresses fit a comfortable duo, and a 14,300-BTU Truma Combi® heater/water heater keeps things comfortable in the shoulder seasons. Solar prep, a 30-amp converter, propane/CO detector, and 26 gallons of fresh water round out this setup.
For the adventurous couple who wants a camper that can go anywhere their SUV goes and stores easily at home, the 10ROK is one of the best compact trailers on the market.
Airstream Basecamp: Best for Iconic Style + Off-Road Capability
Specs
- Length: 16’2″-20’2”
- Dry Weight: 2,650-3,400 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 850-900 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
The Airstream Basecamp is unlike any other bumper pull camper on this list. At just 16’2″ long and 2,650 pounds dry, the 2026 Basecamp 16X is one of the most towable trailers Airstream has ever built. It’s light weight makes it compatible with a wide range of mid-size SUVs and crossovers. New for 2026, Airstream made its premium X-Package standard in every Basecamp. If you’re not familiar, this means each Basecamp 16X comes with a 3-inch suspension lift, rock guards, and Goodyear all-terrain tires on aluminum wheels.
Inside, the Basecamp makes extraordinary use of its compact footprint. The galley wraps around a front panoramic window, making the small space feel surprisingly open. There’s a two-burner cooktop, a 12V fridge/freezer, a wet bath with a foot-flush toilet and a tankless water heater, and a convertible sleeping layout that accommodates two. Add on the optional 200W roof solar package to make off-grid camping easy.
If you want an SUV-towable camper that turns heads at the trailhead, this is it. The Basecamp is the most rugged, adventure-ready Airstream ever made.
Keystone Outback OBX: Best for Off-Road Families
Specs
- Length: 20’5″-22’1”
- Dry Weight: 3,965-4,100 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 1,125-1,169 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 5
The Outback OBX debuted in 2024 as Keystone’s answer to the growing demand for compact, off-road-capable family campers. It instantly became a standout option in the SUV-towable segment.
For 2025 and 2026, Keystone expanded the lineup to include additional floor plans, with the entry-level 17BH maxing out at just 20’5″ and around 3,965 lbs. Both the 17BH and 18BHS feature rear bunk beds, making this SUV-sized camper family-friendly.
The OBX is built on a NORCO NXG frame with Dexter TORFLEX® torsion axles for a smoother ride over rough terrain. Standard features include HyperDeck high-performance water-resistant flooring, a Girard on-demand tankless water heater, a solar-compatible 12V refrigerator, a heated and enclosed underbelly, and a cargo rack on the bumper. The optional off-road package adds independent suspension and knobby mud tires—a meaningful upgrade if you plan to leave the pavement.
The 18BHS includes a single slide-out that opens up a spacious dining and living area. With dual battery bracket options, backup camera prep, and 4G LTE connectivity prep standard, the OBX punches well above its weight class. If you’re a family of four or five who wants an SUV-friendly camper built for more than just parking-lot campgrounds, this is the one to test-tow.
Forest River R-Pod: Best Aerodynamic Design
Specs
- Length: 17’3″ – 22’2″
- Dry Weight: 3,024-3,825 pounds
- Cargo Capacity: 960-1,500 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 3-4
The Forest River R-Pod has earned a devoted following for good reason: it’s compact, aerodynamic, and practical for SUV owners who want a full RV experience without the weight penalty. The 2026 lineup spans nine RP-series floor plans, with dry weights starting around 3,024 lbs. If you have a mid or full-size SUV with a little more towing capacity, this is a lineup to check out.
The r-pod’s teardrop-inspired silhouette isn’t just for looks. The aerodynamic shape reduces wind drag during towing. Say hello to better fuel efficiency on the road!.
Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a queen bed, and a full bath. Many floor plans include awnings to create a shaded patio, even when camping in places like Joshua Tree or Death Valley. Standard features across the 2026 lineup include a large roof-mounted solar panel with a 30-amp controller, 15,000 BTU A/C, an on-demand tankless water heater, an enclosed underbelly with forced heat, tire pressure monitoring, and a convection microwave.
What I appreciate most about the r-pod is how much functionality is packed into such a manageable size. The floor plans leave almost no wasted space and feature smart storage throughout. The compact footprint also means you can fit into national park campsites and state park loops that turn away larger rigs. If you want a no-compromise SUV-towable camper that’s easy to tow, easy to park, and easy to live in, the R-Pod is a perennial favorite.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an SUV Towable RV
Shopping for an SUV-towable camper is exciting, but a few weight ratings will determine exactly which trailers are safe for your vehicle. Here’s what you need to know before you commit.
Your SUV’s Towing Capacity
Look in your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its towing capacity. Most SUVs are rated to tow between 1,500 and 5,000 pounds, though some full-size models can handle considerably more. Use our Camping World Tow Guide to quickly look up your vehicle’s tow capacity by year, make, model, and trim.
Towing capacity alone isn’t the whole story. Your SUV’s payload capacity—how much total weight it can carry in passengers, cargo, and tongue weight— limiting factor. Tongue weight typically runs 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight and counts against your vehicle’s payload. Check both numbers before you shop.
The Difference Between Dry Weight and GVWR
When you see a trailer listed with a dry weight (also called unloaded vehicle weight, or UVW), that’s the weight of the camper without any of your camping supplies like water, gear, clothes, fuel, and food. Your actual towing weight will be higher. The GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is the maximum loaded weight of the trailer, including all cargo, water, and supplies. This is the number that must stay within your SUV’s tow rating.
Technician’s Tip: A helpful formula to remember: UVW + CCC = GVWR. The CCC (cargo carrying capacity) tells you how much weight you have left for gear and water after the trailer’s base weight is accounted for.
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
There’s one more number to check: your vehicle’s GCWR, or gross combined weight rating. This accounts for the total weight of your SUV, the trailer, all passengers, and all cargo combined. Even if your trailer is within your tow rating individually, you also need to stay within your vehicle’s GCWR. It may sound like a lot of math, but a quick conversation with your dealer or a few minutes with our tow guide makes it manageable.
Want a deeper dive into all the weight ratings? Our guide to RV weight ratings covers every acronym you’ll encounter.
What Is the Lightest Bumper Pull Camper for an SUV?
The lightest fully walkable bumper-pull campers for SUV towing typically start at 1,700–2,000 lbs dry weight. The Bontrager Outdoors Drifter 10ROK checks in at just 1,700 lbs, making it towable by almost any SUV or crossover on the road. The Rockwood Geo Pro G11LE, at 1,728 lbs dry with a full bath and kitchen, is the lightest traditionally walkable travel trailer. Teardrop-style trailers can weigh even less, though they offer more limited amenities. If your SUV has a lower tow rating (under 3,500 lbs), look specifically for single axle trailers with dry weights under 2,500 lbs and GVWRs that leave a meaningful safety margin below your vehicle’s maximum rating — ideally no more than 80% of your tow capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most SUVs can pull a bumper pull camper, provided you match the trailer’s loaded weight (GVWR) to your vehicle’s tow rating. Most mid-size and full-size SUVs are rated to tow between 3,500 and 7,500 lbs, which covers a wide range of compact travel trailers. Always check your specific vehicle’s tow capacity in the owner’s manual or on the doorjamb sticker, and factor in tongue weight when calculating your payload before purchasing.
Many popular SUVs can tow bumper pull campers, from the Ford® Explorer and Toyota 4Runner (towing up to ~5,000 lbs) to larger models like the Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Sequoia, which can tow 7,000–9,600 lbs. Smaller crossovers like the Subaru Outback or Honda CR-V can also tow lighter trailers in the 1,500–3,500 lb range.
For a full breakdown of SUV tow ratings by year and trim, see our best SUVs for towing a camper guide.
The best bumper pull camper for your SUV depends on your vehicle’s tow rating, your camping style, and how many people you’re bringing. For maximum tow-vehicle flexibility, the Rockwood Geo Pro’s wide weight range means there’s a floor plan for nearly any SUV. The Bontrager Outdoors Drifter 10ROK and Airstream Basecamp are standout choices for off-road adventure. The Keystone Outback OBX offers family bunkhouse layouts in a compact footprint. For first-time buyers who want a simple, affordable all-electric camper, the Keystone Coleman 13-series is hard to beat.
A bumper pull camper connects to a standard hitch receiver at the rear of your tow vehicle and can be pulled by an SUV, truck, or minivan with the right tow rating. A fifth wheel connects via a specialized hitch mounted in a pickup truck’s bed, which distributes weight more evenly but requires a full-size truck. Fifth wheels are generally larger and heavier, while bumper pull campers offer more vehicle flexibility and easier maneuverability at smaller sizes.
SUV-towable bumper pull campers typically start around $13,000–$22,000 for entry-level models like the Coleman 13-series and Bontrager Drifter 10ROK, and range up to $55,000 or more for premium options like the Airstream Basecamp. Pricing varies significantly by brand, floor plan, features, and optional packages. Contact your local Camping World for current pricing and financing options.
Most SUVs will need a weight-distributing hitch and a brake controller for trailers over 5,000 lbs GVWR, though specific requirements vary by vehicle and trailer. For lighter trailers under 3,500 lbs, a standard Class III receiver hitch is typically sufficient. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will specify hitch class requirements, and your dealer can recommend the right setup for your specific combination
If you want to get into the RV life but aren’t ready to upgrade your vehicle, a bumper-pull travel trailer might be the perfect choice for your first camper.
- What Is the Best SUV for Towing a Camper?
- Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3,000lbs
- Light Camper Trailers You Can Tow with a Minivan
- Travel Trailer Towing Safety Basics
Which of these bumper pull campers fits your SUV and your camping style? Tell us in the comments below.
I’m single man with Tahoe 4WD. What can I find in a camper I can live in?
Hi David!
You can use our Towing Calculator (https://rv.campingworld.com/towguide) to check your vehicle’s specific towing capacity. You can take that number and contact your local Camping World or use our RV search tool (https://rv.campingworld.com/rvs-for-sale) to filter results in your area based on weight, condition (new vs used), price/payment, and other factors.
Hope that helps!
no prices makes this a no go for me. I want to know the prices of each
Hi Maria!
Each model we listed in this piece has a link to where you can check pricing and availability. But here they are for easy reference!
Forest River NoBo: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/forest-river/no-boundaries
TAXA Cricket: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/taxa-outdoors/cricket
TAXA Mantis: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/taxa-outdoors/mantis
Airstream Basecamp: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/airstream/basecamp
Forest River R-Pod: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/forest-river/r-pod
Jayco Hummingbird: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/jayco/hummingbird
Hope that helps!
You also forgot the Trailmarker trailer. Plenty of room and VERY lite. Made of all aluminum they even have a smaller off road specific model.
I have 1997 Chevy Silverado with camper top
You forgot DROPLET teardrop trailers. Those super cute lightweight campers are under 1000lbs and can be towed by a VW Golf!!
I wish there was a nationwide list where you type in your vehicle model and it displays all the RV’S you can tow. (Showing ALL manufactures.)