Pop up campers are collapsible tow vehicles that can transport storage or turn into a sleeping unit – weighing significantly less than traditional campers and provide unique benefits to those looking for alternative methods of camping. The weight of a pop-up camper depends on which size you choose, as well as what features come with it.
The average pop up camper weighs between 2000 pounds of dry weight. When you add cargo – this weight can increase by an extra 500 – 1000 pounds. Mini-sized pop-up campers can weigh between 500 pounds – 990 pounds, medium-sized pop-up campers can weigh between 1300 – 2500 pounds, and larger-sized pop-up campers can weigh from 2990 – 4800 pounds or more.
Before purchasing a pop-up camper – factors such as the GVWR weight, tow capacity, measurements, features, and the vehicle you own to tow this camper should be accounted for prior.
Mini-Sized Pop-Up Campers Weights
1. 2014 Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 6.0
For someone with a lighter vehicle, you’ll be happy to know that Livin’ Lites 6.0 mini-camper model has a dry weight of only 643 pounds and a towing capacity of 564 pounds (GVWR 1200 lbs.) The measurements are 10 ft x 6.25 ft x 8 ft – and can sleep a maximum of 4 people!
2. 2017 Coachmen Clipper Express
The Clipper Express has a dry weight of 822 pounds and a GVWR of 1305 pounds! Leaving the payload capacity of 483 pounds. In addition, this camper can sleep up to two adults, all thanks to its 14 x 5 x 7 ft measurements.
3. Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0
This mini-sized pop-up camper weighs just under 994 pounds of dry weight. Considering its tow capacity of 1096 lbs- it’s a nifty addition to keep your eyes on. As for measurements, you’re looking at 16 ft long x 7 ft wide x 8.2 ft high.
4. SylvanSport GO
With a dry weight of 840 pounds and a GVWR capacity of 1960 pounds, the GO pop up camper can be transported by anyone of all vehicles! When in camper mode, the measurements are 154 x 124 x 108 inches and 77 inches high.
5. 2014 Livin’ Lite Jeep Trail Edition
Although currently discontinued, the 2014 Livin’ Lite Jeep series was a model that struck people for its lightweight of 950 pounds. Significantly smaller than most with measurements of 6.5 x 8 x 7.3 ft – this mini-sized camper was still able to tow between 450 – 600 pounds of added weight.
Medium-Sized Pop-Up Campers Weights
1. 2020 Aliner Classic Base
With a dry weight of 1590 pounds and a towing capacity of 2500 pounds – you have the luxury to add no more than 910 pounds of additional cargo into your camper. The 2020 Classic sleeps up to 4 adults, and measures between 180 x 98 x 78 inches.
2. 2015 Coachmen Clipper V12 RB
Although still considered a medium-sized pop-up camper, the dry weight is 1946 pounds and GVWR is 3642 pounds. As for the length, width, and height – you’re looking at 12 ft x 7.17 ft x 7.92 ft. The sleeping capacity has a maximum of 4, and also comes equipped with a foldable sofa-bed.
3. 2012 Aliner Classic FD/RB
This camper has a dry weight of 1515 pounds and GVWR of 2000 pounds. Measurements are 15 ft x 4.75 ft x 6.5 ft – and can sleep a maximum amount of 4 passengers. The hitch weight for this camper is 190 pounds also.
4. 2020 Forest River Flagstaff T12RB
For a 17.08 ft long and 7 ft wide camper – the 2020 T12RB is 1208 pounds of Payload Capacity. (Considering the dry weight is 2014 pounds.) Made from steel and embodied with a fiberglass wall construction, this medium-sized camper can sleep a maximum of 4 adults.
5. 2012 Palomino Traverse Glacier Bay
Weighing 1773 pounds of dry weight and a 481 payload capacity – the Palomino Glacier Bay pop up camper is ideal for a party of no more than 6 persons. With measurements of 17 ft x 7.08 ft x 6.58 ft – this medium-sized camper is not only a fantastic middle ground but comes with optional electric add-ons.
Larger-Sized Pop-Up Campers Weights
1. 2015 Jayco 1207UD
With a dry weight of 2045 lbs and a payload capacity of 905 pounds, Jayco’s 1207UD model sleeps a max of 8. The measurements are 23.33 ft x 5.1 ft x 7.08 ft – has a hitch weight of 180 pounds, and is made from aluminum.
2. 2011 Coleman – Americana LE Sun Valley
An impressive 25 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 8 ft high camper – the 2011 Sun Valley has a dry weight of 2175 pounds and a payload capacity of 1325 pounds. It sleeps a max of 8, has a retractable slide out, and is made from steel.
3. 2020 Forest River HW27KS
With a dry weight of 3334 pounds and a payload capacity of 546 pounds – this large-sized camper measures 25.75 ft long and 7 ft wide. The interior height is slightly over 7 ft and sleeps a max of 6.
4. 2019 Forest River 2318G
Slightly over 23.83 ft long and 7 ft wide – the dry weight of this camper remains steady at 2439 pounds. With a payload capacity of 824 pounds and a hitch weight of 263 pounds – the 2019 2318G is an ideal camper for a party of no more than 8.
5. 2019 Jayco 12SC
The dry weight of this camper sits between 2385 pounds, and its Payload capacity is 990 pounds – making the GVWR just over 3375 pounds. Measurements for this large-sized camper is 23.25 ft long and
7.08 ft wide – sleeping a max of 8 and includes one slide-out.
Factors That Affect The Weight
A few things can determine the overall weight of your pop up camper. Find a list of 6 factors that can affect this weight below:
- Internal features pre-installed (AC, shower, toilets)
- Materials used (Aluminium or fiberglass)
- The size of your camper
- Storage or loading space
- Essential components (Brakes, axels)
- Added cargo (Clothing, heating, sporting equipment)
Things To Consider Before Purchasing A Pop-Up
If you’re curious to know what sort of things you should be considering before investing your hard-earned cash into a pop-up camper – we’ve compiled a list for you to think about below:
- Are you aware of the rigid maintenance required to prevent mold, dirt, and unprecedented damage from arising?
- Is your vehicle legally able to tow the pop-up camper you’re interested in?
- How many people will need to sleep in the camper?
- Do you have the patience to build and disassemble your camper every time?
- Will you be traveling to any extremely hot or cold destinations that might require added electricity, heating, or air-con? And are you prepared to find alternative solutions?
- Pop-up campers have limited toilets/showers and appliances, is this Ok?
How Much Towing Capacity Do I Need For a Pop Up Camper?
Depending on the brand, model, and age of the pop-up camper you own – will dictate exactly how much towing capacity you’ll need. This also includes considering your vehicle, for example using an SUV will give you a higher capacity as opposed to a sedan.
A good way to provide you an approximate is looking at the GVWR – otherwise, a minimum required is at least the dry weight of your camper.
How Heavy is a Pop Up Camper Roof?
Although determining the weight of the roof of a pop-up camper depends on AC, roof-racks, or similar extras – an estimate for how heavy (dry weight) the roof on a medium-sized pop-up camper might vary between 350 – 450 pounds.
Are Brakes Required on a Pop-Up Camper?
The braking system on any vehicle is imperative for many reasons, and pop up campers are no different. Pop up campers (unless extremely tiny) come with pre-installed braking power.
It works either by electric or through surge – and connects to your vehicle so it knows when and when not to stop or slow down.
If your pop up camper weighs below 500 pounds, then it will not come with brakes as your vehicle should be powerful enough to stop it alone.
Can a 4 Cylinder Pull a Pop Up Camper?
Yes, 4 cylinders can pull pop up campers. Even sedans or small hatchbacks could do the same job. Keep in mind that each vehicle has a limit to how much it can tow – and 4 cylinders typically have a maximum of 2000 pounds.
What Size Hitch Do I Need For a Pop Up Camper?
Depending on the pop-up camper you own, will determine what size hitch you’ll need to buy. If the hitch you purchase is too small – it won’t secure properly. Whereas if it’s too large – it continues to run the same risk. To determine what size hitch is best for your pop up camper, you should consider a few things first.
Every pop-up camper has a dry weight, and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) – when choosing what hitch class will suit your vehicle, using the campers GVWR can give you a rough estimate.
Extra tip: If you want to know how much fuel, baggage, and added weight you can tow inside of your pop up camper – simply subtract the dry weight from the GVWR.
Can an SUV Pull a Pop Up Camper?
Whether you own an SUV, sedan, or even a hatchback – no car is specifically designed for the sole purpose of towing a pop-up camper. Meaning you don’t need to worry about upgrading your car just yet.
One thing to be mindful of, however, is most cars have a towing limit. Large SUVs can typically tow cargo between 3000 – 8000 lbs whereas some smaller SUVs might have a maximum weight of 4500 lbs.
This threshold varies depending on the make and model of your car – thus it’s handy to keep this in mind before purchasing a pop-up camper.
Do I Need a Weight Distribution Hitch For a Pop Up Camper?
Weight distribution hitches work to distribute the weight of your cargo evenly. There are only two ways you will know if your pop up camper needs a weight-distribution hitch – either through checking with your manufacturer, or understanding whether your trailer weighs over half of your towing vehicle weight.
If your towing vehicle weight is under this threshold – you should look to invest in a weight-distribution hitch. Husky or Curt sell some affordable ones online, otherwise enquiring with your local trailer parts store is an alternative option.
How Long Does a Pop Up Camper Last?
A pop-up camper is expected to last between 10 to 15 years. This, however, depends on factors such as the model, age, condition, and features it comes equipped with.
Just because a camper might be newer, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll last you any longer than purchasing an older model. If the interior (or exterior) has been kept in immaculate condition – it’s worth the consideration.
Things you can do to prolong your pop up camper:
- Maintain a vigorous cleaning routine
- Check batteries, all systems, bearings, and cables regularly
- Protect your camper from mold, grease, and dirt
- Ensure the upkeep of all door and window seals
- Never go over the recommended speed limit
Do Pop Up Campers Stay Warm?
Pop up campers come with little insulation and usually have no heating or air conditioning. The only way they stay warm is if you’re in a warm climate or have taken alternative measures to prolong heat.
Investing in a portable heater can help you keep the nip off. Otherwise doing any of these things listed below are alternative solutions:
- Keeping all doors and windows tightly shut
- Buying reflectix and placing them against windows
- Seal edges of your pop up camper using blankets or sleeping bags
- Hang blankets over windows and doors
- Wearing layers and choosing weather-appropriate clothes
Can You Use a Pop Up Camper In The Rain?
When searching for a new destination to travel in your pop up camper – considering the rain is imperative. Although pop up campers can withstand a bit of rain, doing so for prolonged periods will not only deteriorate your camper quicker but can also be a strenuous job.
You can avoid this by choosing alternative destinations that have minimal to zero rainfall. Otherwise investing in additional waterproof items alongside keeping consistent cleaning/wiping measures might be your only other option.
Are Pop Up Campers Waterproof?
Interested in purchasing a pop-up camper but afraid of water leaking in? Unlike tents and other similar sleepers – pop up campers are made waterproof. Because it sits on a chassis, no water can seep in from below.
The roof is also typically made from a type of fiberglass, so the top of the camper stays waterless.
As for the sides of a pop-up camper – most are made using a vinyl material. And vinyl is usually waterproof. But beware, over-time this vinyl may deteriorate – especially if it’s had constant rain hitting it.
Do Pop Up Campers Have Electricity?
The electrical system constructed into a pop-up camper consists of either one or two types of units. You might use DC power – which is another way to talk about batteries. Or shore power – which is used for campground purposes.
For example:
If you’re going camping where there is no adequate power unit to plug your campers shore power cord into – then you would be relying on DC power.
However, if you’re at a campground – then you would be using shore power via your shore power cord built into your camper. This cord plugs into an adequate power socket (12, 20, 30 voltage) and from there your electrical systems inside will work.
It’s important to consider your destination before traveling in your pop up camper – as relying on DC power can limit certain units you might have inside (for example; your air-con or power sockets.)
Are Pop Up Campers Insulated?
If you were hoping to purchase a warm pop up camper for the winter season – you should know that these vehicles don’t come insulated. Pop up campers do not come pre-insulated due to the intricacy of its design. There are numerous ways you can learn to keep it warm through and prevent the condensation from making everything feel damp.
How Do You Keep a Pop Up Camper From Sweating?
The only way you can prevent the occurrence of sweating from demolishing your pop up camper is by being mindful of any wet or moisture trapped inside. Start this process by placing any damp items outside.
Other things you can do include:
- Keeping all windows, zips, and openings dry
- Wiping immediately after rainfall
- Airing your camper out
- Keeping vents and windows open wide
- Turn off overly hot items for prolonged periods
- Choose clothing materials that help prevent sweat
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Thank you for reading this post. I hope you found it helpful.
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