What Campers Can an SUV Tow?

3 Lightweight Travel Trailers Perfect for SUV Owners

One of the most common questions first-time RV buyers ask is:

“Can my SUV tow a camper?”

The answer is yes, but only certain lightweight travel trailers. Most SUVs can safely tow between 3,500 and 6,000 pounds, depending on the model and tow package.

If you’re looking for a camper that works well with many SUVs, here are three great lightweight options worth considering.

1. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 130BH

The 130BH is one of the best ultra-compact bunkhouse campers on the market. It’s small, lightweight, and perfect for families who want a simple camper that’s easy to tow.

Key Specs

• Length: 16 ft 1 in
• Dry Weight: 2,500 lbs
• GVWR: 3,500 lbs
• Sleeps: 4 

Floorplan Overview

The floorplan is designed to maximize space in a very small camper.

Inside you'll find:

• Front full bed
• Rear bunk beds
• Small dinette
• Compact kitchen
• Rear bathroom

The bunkhouse layout makes it a great starter camper for small families while still being short enough to easily tow and park.

Because it’s only around 2,500 lbs dry, many midsize SUVs can tow this camper comfortably.

2. Sunset Park Sun Lite LTD 13BD

The Sun Lite 13BD is another extremely lightweight camper designed specifically for easy towing.

Key Specs

• Length: 16 ft 2 in
• Dry Weight: 2,370 lbs
• GVWR: 3,750 lbs
• Sleeps: 3 

Floorplan Overview

The 13BD has a simple but efficient layout.

Features include:

• Front full-size bed
• Dinette that converts into a bed
• Kitchen with cooktop and refrigerator
• Full bathroom with shower

This camper is ideal for couples or small families who want a lightweight travel trailer that almost any properly equipped SUV can tow.

Its narrow width and light weight also make it easier to maneuver on the road and at campgrounds.

3. Coachmen Catalina Summit Series 8 134REX

One of the standout features of this model is the fold-down bunk, which allows families to have additional sleeping space without increasing the overall size or weight of the trailer.

Key Specs

• Length: 16 ft 
• Dry Weight: 2,734 lbs
• GVWR: 3,850 lbs
• Sleeps: 4–5

Floorplan Overview

The 134REX floorplan is simple, efficient, and perfect for families who want a small camper that still sleeps multiple people.

Inside you’ll find:

• Rear dinette that converts into a bed
• Fold-down bunk above the dinette for extra sleeping space
• Compact kitchen with sink, cooktop, and refrigerator
• Overhead storage throughout the camper

Because the camper stays under 3,000 pounds dry weight, the Catalina 134REX is another great option for many properly equipped SUVs looking to tow a lightweight travel trailer.

SUVs That Can Typically Tow These Campers

Many modern SUVs have towing capacities between 3,500 and 6,000 pounds, making them capable of pulling lightweight travel trailers like the ones above.

Here are some common SUVs and their typical towing capacities:

With tow ratings like these, SUVs can comfortably handle lightweight campers under 4,000 pounds, which includes the three models discussed above.

Important Towing Tips

Before towing a camper with your SUV, always consider:

• Tow rating of your vehicle
• Payload capacity
• Hitch weight
• Weight distribution hitch
• Trailer brake controller

Even if a camper is light enough to tow, loading gear, water, and supplies can increase the total weight quickly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a camper that works with an SUV, lightweight travel trailers like the Jayco 130BH, Sun Lite 13BD, and Catalina REX are excellent options.

They provide comfortable sleeping space, practical floorplans, and manageable weights that allow many SUVs to tow them safely.

For many first-time RV owners, these types of campers are the perfect entry point into the RV lifestyle.

Visit thervcentral.com to find these campers and more!