What is a Pop-Up Camper?
A pop-up camper is a small utility tow-behind recreational vehicle (RV) that can be collapsed or folded down for easy storage and transport. Small pop up campers are typically much lighter and more affordable than other RVs, making them a popular choice for many campers and travelers.
When collapsed, pop-up campers resemble a standard trailer or cargo carrier. However, once set up at a campsite, they reveal their true nature as comfortable floor plan accommodations complete with beds, small kitchen facilities, and even bathrooms. Most pop-ups have at least one double bed, and some have enough sleeping space for up to six people.
Suppose you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable RV perfect for weekend getaways or longer camping trips. In that case, a pop-up camper might be the right fit.
What are Considered Small Pop-Up Campers?
Small pop-up campers are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without all the hassle of pitching a tent. They are relatively easy to tow and set up and come in various sizes to fit your needs.
So, what do people consider a small pop-up camper? Well, that depends on a few factors. Most small pop-up campers will be under five feet tall when closed, making them easy to tow behind a small SUV or minivan. Some small pop-up campers have an expandable roof that allows you to stand up inside the camper, making them even more versatile. Lastly, we will mention as an alternative there are some rooftop and truck-bed tents for pickups and SUVs,
When it comes to weight, most small popup campers will weigh between 1,000 and 2,500 pounds dry (not including any gear or water, you may add.
Why is Pop Up Campers Popularity Growing?
Pop up campers are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons. They are much more affordable than traditional RVs, and you can tow them in a smaller vehicle. These popular small pop-up campers are also super lightweight and easy to set up and take down, making them ideal for weekend getaways.
Another reason for the popularity of pop up campers is that they offer a unique camping experience. Unlike traditional RVs, which can feel like mini apartments on wheels, pop up campers force you to interact with the outdoors. There’s no better way to interact and connect with nature and disconnect from technology.
So if you’re looking for an affordable, convenient, and unique camping option, a lightweight and easy to tow pop up camper may be right for you.
Why Choose a Pop-Up Over Other Campers?
A pop-up camper is an excellent and usually more affordable option than others, making them a good choice for budget-minded campers.
Most pop-ups weigh less than 3,000 pounds, so many SUVs and smaller trucks can tow them. These campers are a good choice for campers who don’t want to invest in a large RV or trailer.
Pop-ups are also relatively compact when folded down; therefore, they do not require a lot of storage space. A pop-up might be the right choice if you don’t have a lot of space to keep a camper. Because they’re smaller and lighter, they’re easier to store when not in use.
What are the Shortfalls of Pop-Up Campers?
There are a few potential shortfalls when it comes to pop-up campers. First, they can be challenging for some people to set up and take down, especially if you’re doing it yourself.
Pop-up campers are not as sturdy as other RVs, so they may not be ideal in bad weather or traveling to particularly rough terrain.
Finally, because of their compact size, they do not have all the same features and amenities you would find in larger RVs. However, pop-up campers can be a perfect and viable option for those looking for a more affordable way to travel.
Some Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Pop Up
A pop-up camper would be ideal for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. However, before you purchase a pop up camper, you should consider a few things.
First, decide what size camper you need. Pop up campers come in various sizes, from small two-person models to large family-sized campers. Consider how many people will be sleeping in the trailer and what type of gear you’ll bring along. You’ll also want to check and verify that your vehicle has the towing capacity to handle the weight of the camper.
Next, think about where you’ll be using your camper. Suppose you plan on doing a lot of off-roading or boondocking (camping without hookups). In that case, you’ll need a model designed for those activities.
When shopping for a small pop up camper, you also want to consider how you’ll use it. If you are the outdoorsy type, spending most of your time hiking or biking, you’ll want a lighter camper that’s easy to tow. If you want to camp in comfort, look for one with more amenities like a kitchenette or bathroom. These campers are usually easy to pull and set up and have sizes and styles to fit your needs.
No matter your camping style, there’s a small pop up camper that’s perfect for you. Check out the campers the best 10 small pop up campers listed below.
10 Best Small Pop-Up Campers & Trailers on the Market Today
These campers or also known as tent trailers are lightweight, easy to use, and some even have a bathroom! And to mention, much more affordable than traditional trailers. Here we reveal the ten best small pop-up campers of this year’s top pop up tent trailers (say it 3 times quickly).
1. Starcraft Comet Camper
The Starcraft Comet is an excellent pop up camper for most families. The Comet includes a couple of beds, one full-sized bed on one side of the trailer and another queen on the opposite side. The camper kitchen area has sufficient space inside, with the dinette separating the two beds.
2. SylvanSport GO Camper
The SulvanSport Go is perhaps the smallest pop-up camper on our list and is unique. The SylvanSport GO enables you to set up a tent with a dinette table or a tent with a giant bed – there is no in-between!
You can use the dinette table during the day, and in the evening, after sunset, you are ready for bed, put the dinette table away and pull the cushions down for a good night’s rest! This model is 100% waterproof, truly one of a kind, and is one of our favorites.
3. Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0 Camper
You might not have much space in this pop up camper, but it is a beauty. Quicksilver 8.0 is an excellent choice for families looking for an adventure or even a group of friends that want a weekend getaway.
4. Forest River Flagstaff Camper
The Forest River Flagstaff is a perfect pop up camper with a roof-like design resembling a tiny house. This model might not be the best for couples (as there are two twin mattresses rather than a queen). Still, if you and your partner are okay with sleeping apart for a few nights, the model will be perfect for you!
5. Jay Sport Camping Trailer
The Jay Sport Camping Trailer is perfect if you are looking for a classy camper. There is no built-in bathroom, but it has an exterior shower!
6. Forest River Rockwood High Camper
The Forest River Rockwood High may sound like a high school found deep within the forest, but it is a pop up camper (that you can take into the woods). Each Rockwood High model features a three-burner glass top stove with an oven, a microwave, a WiFi range booster, and much more!
7. Coachmen Clipper Camper
The Coachmen Clipper; is a small camper yet spacious and constructed with aerodynamic materials that make it a breeze to pull behind your vehicle. There’s nothing but superlatives about the Coachmen Clipper, which would make an excellent choice for a camper.
8. Air Opus Pop Up Camper
The Air Opus Camper features an electric heater, 2-way refrigerator, comfortable seating, gas stove, running water, and 12-volt and 120-volt outlets. The Air Opus is a leading-edge pop up the camper as it has eliminated the telescoping poles and cranking system most pop-ups use. All you need with Air Pole Technology is to flip a switch, and your camper pops up in 90 seconds.
This pop up camper deflates in 30 seconds, so it is even easier for you to pack up and get out when your camping trip is over. The Opus lightweight camper means it is towable by most 6-cylinder SUVs.
Want to go off-roading? You can get the rugged Air Opus in an off-road edition to reach those off-grid destinations.
9. Clipper Camping Trailers by Coachman
Depending on the model type, it may have high-density cushions, a kitchen with a range with two burners, an on-demand water pump, a built-in shower, a porta-potty, a fridge, a furnace, and a hot-water heater.
Coachman has four styles of Clipper Camping Trailers, the Express, the LS, the Sport/Classic, and the V-Trek. The models come in a variety of sizes, and in all the models, the roof raises with a dual-drive winch. You can use a drill bit for the crank handle for backup. The camper pops up in just 30 seconds, according to Coachman.
The Clipper pop up trailers will have any amenity you are looking for in a pop up camper. Do you need a toilet and a shower? You will find that in the Classic and the V-Trek. Want something small and portable? Check out the Express. Regarding the Coachman Clipper options, it is probably best to head to a dealer and tour the camper trailers to view all the amenities for yourself.
10. Rockwood Hard-Sided Pop Up Camper
The Rockwood features a water pump, hot-water heater, kitchen with range and microwave, optional shower, and porta-potty.
This pop up camper is the best of two worlds. It has the portability and storage of a pop up camper, with the hard sides of a typical travel trailer. This camper is a fantastic little A-frame camper that does condense down into a sleek, towable camper. This hard-sided camper is made of fiberglass and is quick and easy to set up.
If you do not like the A-frame? Forest River has other Rockwood varieties, with one with the appearance of a typical pop-up camper.
The Rockwood Camper has an Extreme Sports Package (ESP) designed for those with an active lifestyle. The ESP includes mount crossbars that can store outdoor gear like bicycles and kayaks with more tech than other pop-up designs, such as the WiFi Ranger.
8 Best Small Pop Up Campers Trailers With Showers and Toilets?
There are many reasons to love small and compact pop up campers. They’re easy to tow, don’t take up much space, and are relatively affordable. One of the best things about small pop up campers is that they also come with showers and toilets, which means you can enjoy all the comforts of home while camping in the great outdoors.
Here are eight of the best small pop up campers with showers and toilets:
1. Jayco Hummingbird 10SC: This lightweight camper is easy to tow and comes with a wet bath.
2. Forest River R-Pod RP-179: The RP-179 has a private bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink. It also has a small kitchen area for preparing meals.
3. Jayco Jay Flight SLX: This camper has a wet bath, two sleeping areas, and an outdoor kitchen with a sink.
4. Forest River Wildwood X-Lite: The X-Lite s wet bath includes a shower and toilet.
5. Keystone Montana: This camper has a wet bath with a toilet and sink.
6. Forest River R-Pod 179: The R-Pod 179 has a wet bath with a shower, toilet, and sink.
7. Keystone Montana High Country: The High Country has a wet bath with a toilet and sink.
8. Jayco Eagle Super Lite X-Lite: This camper has a wet bath with a shower, toilet, and sink.
What is the Smallest Pop-Up Camper?
When it comes to small pop-up campers, size matters, some people are perfectly content with a small compact pop-up camper. In contrast, others need all the bells and whistles that come with a larger RV. But what is the smallest pop up camper?
A few different brands make small pop up campers, but the one that seems to be the most popular is the Aliner. The Aliner is perhaps the smallest and lightest pop-up camper at just under 700 pounds, making it possible to pull behind small cars.
It is one of the ultra lightweight pop-up campers and easiest tow campers on the market. These pop up campers have a relatively small footprint when it’s closed up, so you can easily store them in a small space or garage.
The Aliner isn’t just one of the best lightweight pop up campers that’s easy to tow – it’s also a very affordable, lightweight pop-up.
What is the Smallest PopUp Camper with a Bathroom?
The smallest pop up camper with a bathroom is the Rockwood Freedom Series. It has a base weight of only 2,205 pounds, making it easy to pull behind most vehicles.
The floorplan features a queen bed, dinette, and full bathroom with shower. There is also an optional slide-out for added interior space. This camper is perfect for couples or small families who want the convenience of a bathroom without sacrificing too much space or weight.
How Much Do Small Pop Up Campers Weigh?
Pop up are for people looking for more affordable and convenient options for camping and travel. But how much do these small pop up campers weigh?
The weight of a pop up camper can vary depending on the size and features of the camper. A small, basic pop up camper might weigh around 2,000 pounds, while a larger camper with more features could weigh closer to 4,000 pounds.
If you’re looking to purchase a small pop up camper, it’s vital to keep the weight in mind. You’ll need to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight of a pop-up camper, along with considering where you’ll be taking the camper. Suppose you’re planning on doing any off-roading or traveling on rough roads. In that case, a lighter camper might be a better option.
Towing Tips for Small and Lightweight Pop Up Campers
When it comes to towing a small pop up camper, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, check the dry weight of your camper and compare it to your vehicle’s towing capacity. If you’re close to your vehicle’s towing limit, you may consider upgrading your tow vehicle or renting a larger one for the trip.
Second, invest in some good quality tow straps and chains. You don’t want your camper coming unhitched in the middle of the highway!
Third, take it slow and easy when backing up and setting up camp. With some practice, you’ll be a pro on how to tow a pop-up camper in no time.
What Do Pop Up Campers Cost?
Pop up campers or tent trailers are a great option for those who want to take on nature without having to rough it. These RVs fold down for easy storage and can be set up in minutes, making them perfect for weekend getaways. But what does a pop up camper cost?
Pop up campers’ prices start at around $5,000 and can range from $20,000 or more. Factors that affect cost include size, weight, amenities, and whether or not the camper is new or used.
For example, a used pop up camper that weighs less than 2,000 pounds and has no bathroom or kitchen facilities will typically cost less than $10,000.
Pop Up Campers Final Thoughts
Second, decide how much space you need. If you have a large family, you’ll need a bigger camper than if you’re camping with your spouse or partner.