Last updated on November 1st, 2023 at 03:23 pm
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Looking for a travel trailer big enough for the whole family but also light enough to be towed comfortably by your midsize truck or SUV? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best travel trailers under 8,000 pounds that will tick plenty of your boxes!
Finding a travel trailer able to suit your needs can be like Cinderella’s slipper. There’s a lot to consider, and a lot of travel trailers to tour. You may even be looking for something lighter such as travel trailers under 4,000 pounds, and it’s possible to find these on the market too.
Knowing what’s worth considering before you start shopping is the way to go. And that’s what we’re here for. Let’s dive in and take a look at what you should be considering in a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds.
If you’d like to see the travel trailers we’ve listed right away, you can skip ahead using the table of contents below:
What To Consider In A Travel Trailer Under 8000 Pounds?
Purchasing a new or used RV is exciting, but there’s a lot to think about, especially if you’re shopping for an RV for the first time! Knowing you want a travel trailer weighing less than 8,000 pounds is a good place to start, and helps narrow down the selection a substantial amount.
Let’s go over some of the considerations worth making before diving straight into a final travel trailer purchase!
Towing Capacity
Not only does a level travel trailer during towing matter, but it’s also essential to know how much weight you’re able to safely carry on the road. You need to know the towing capacity of your tow vehicle before shopping around for travel trailers, as some are far heavier than others and won’t be suitable options.
If you’re looking for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, chances are high that you’re already familiar with your tow vehicle’s overall towing capacity. If you’ve yet to purchase a tow vehicle that will be responsible for moving your travel trailer from one location to another, sticking to a trailer weighing under 8,000 pounds is a smart move.
Many trucks and SUVs have a decent towing capacity, but your budget will affect what truck or SUV you purchase. The bigger the truck, the larger your towing capacity will be, but your budget will need to be larger as well. Weight is everything when it comes to travel trailers and RVing. You should always weigh your travel trailer while it’s full, especially because the average 30-foot camper can weigh close to 5,000 pounds dry!
Overall Length
Just like the weight of your travel trailer matters, the overall length of your travel trailer matters too. You may think the bigger the RV, the better the RV. However…
While having a large RV may be necessary to fit your family of five, you may think twice when it comes time to tow the travel trailer home. A bigger and longer rig may not be the safest option for you to drive, especially if you are new to towing. The longer the RV, the more likely it is to be heavy and above an 8,000-pound towing capacity.
You’ll find that many RVs on this list are quite sizable and large, but there are caveats to owning a bigger RV. For example, the longer your travel trailer is, the more likely you will experience shaking and rocking as you move about the rig. Plus, many campgrounds and RV parks have length limits to certain spots. You may not have considered it before, but length does matter in terms of booking reservations at campgrounds.
Always check the RV park you are looking at has adequate space for the overall length of your RV, especially if you’re renting your rig from a website like outdoorsy or RVShare. The overall length of your trailer also makes a huge difference in terms of safety while towing. Even if you happen to evenly distribute the weight inside the trailer and purchase additional accessories such as sway control bars, the longer your rig is, the more likely you are to lose control over it.
Travel Trailer Layout
There are more layouts of travel trailers than you can possibly fathom, even some with two bathrooms! While it can be difficult to determine what layout you need, it’s one of the best parts of choosing a new RV. You may be looking for a layout able to support the whole family, or perhaps a travel trailer with extra perks for your dog or cat.
Maybe you are looking for a layout with two master bedrooms so your parents or grandparents can feel comfortable on the road as well. Travel trailer layouts have become so diverse that finding features such as bunk beds, fireplaces, and even large chef-style kitchens is no longer a rarity!
The possibilities are endless, and many RV manufacturers even have additional options and upgrades for you to consider before finalizing a travel trailer purchase. I highly recommend touring some travel trailers you are interested in or utilizing video tours on an RV manufacturer’s website. This will give you a better idea of the overall space and room layout of the travel trailer you were considering.
You may already know where your priorities are, including whether or not you want a wet or dry bath on board your travel trailer. Looking for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds means you will have more options than you know what to do with!
Storage Capacity
Besides considering what layout you want, it’s worth bearing in mind how much storage you’re hoping for in a new travel trailer. Storage capacity is key in any RV, especially if you plan on traveling with a large group or the whole family.
RV manufacturers have become increasingly unique and innovative with their storage solutions, allowing everyone’s belongings to come on board and be stored away neatly and organized. Even the smallest and lightest toy haulers have impressive storage spaces for kayaks and ATVs. This can be handy for the adventurous RVer, and those who want to make the most of the great outdoors.
Even if you aren’t planning on bringing a bunch of recreational gear, having ample storage should be a consideration for you while shopping. This is especially true if you plan on camping for long periods in your RV, or even thinking about living in it full-time.
Depending on the RV manufacturer, many travel trailer options have the ability to be built out with more storage if you are in touch with the builders directly. You can easily install pass-thru storage boxes on your rig’s exterior, or have a wardrobe put inside your master bedroom for ultimate organization.
Number Of Beds Required
Just like your layout matters in terms of housing everyone comfortably while you camp, you need to consider just how many beds and sleeping arrangements you need. RVs are very versatile in terms of their convertible furniture and bed options, but there will likely not be room for you to bring in an air mattress or other portable bed.
When looking at various layout options while shopping for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, you may look specifically for rigs with bunk beds or convertible sleeping arrangements such as futon couches or Murphy beds. However, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it shouldn’t be too tricky to find a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds with everything you need on board.
Budget
Budget is always a big factor to consider, no matter the weight or size of the RV you’re considering. Regardless of the budget you have, there are plenty of options on the market, and it may even be possible to find a high-quality used RV for a good price.
RV manufacturers offer their rigs with standard features as well as nonstandard features, and although additional upgrades such as solar panels are tank heaters are useful, they can raise the overall cost significantly. Given there are also many RV accessories to purchase, especially for a larger travel trailer, sticking to a set amount of money is always a good idea.
There are many features that you can choose to upgrade yourself as well, such as more durable RV underbelly insulation, solar panels, and more. This can help keep costs down, though it will require more DIY and maintenance on your part. If you have a large enough budget, it may be worth investing in additional weather packages or boondocking upgrades so you have a fully equipped RV, able to tackle life on the road.
Good Brands Of Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds
Curious to know what brands of travel trailers are well-known and supported? Here are some of the best brands on the market today, though almost any travel trailer under 8,000 pounds should be well-supported by its manufacturer.
Something to consider while shopping for a brand-new RV is the warranties being offered. You may find one company has a much more comprehensive and supportive warranty than another, so this could alter your decision.
Jayco
Dating back to 1968, Jayco has been a long-time name in the RV game, and for good reason. Not only is Jayco constantly reinventing what it means to RV, but they also make durable and quality rigs able to last for generations to come. Their very first travel trailer model was manufactured in 1971, and their JayFlight model has earned the #1 selling travel trailer award for the past 15 years.
It isn’t a secret that Jayco makes good rigs, and they are a name I trust to bring quality and trust to the RVing community. Jayco takes the time to make their rigs strong and durable, with ultra-light and sturdy frames, Amish woodworking featured in the interiors, and one of the best warranties in the business. You won’t need to worry about your travel trailer under 8,000 pounds if it’s a Jayco!
Speaking of warranties, Jayco offers a two-year RV warranty and a three-year structural warranty. This is more than you can expect from many in the RV business, and provides the peace of mind I believe is needed in having a long-lasting, reliable RV.
Forest River
Another big RV name, and popular like Jayco, is Forest River. They own many other RV brand names such as Coachmen, Palomino, and Dynamax. You may have seen these brands while camping or on the road, and it makes sense why: they’re fantastic RVs to consider.
Forest River was founded in 1996 and has grown a significant amount since then. While they can’t be considered a company that pioneered the RVing business, they can be deemed one of the most reliable and versatile manufacturers around. With multiple manufacturing companies throughout the United States, Forest River makes approximately 50 different styles of RVs under the Forest River brand name alone.
With these stats, finding a unique Forest River travel trailer weighing under 8,000 pounds should be a breeze! They also offer a reliable warranty, an owner’s club, roadside assistance, and more. Consider Forest River for your travel trailer purchase- they no doubt have a camper to blow your socks off!
Lance
Starting in 1965 with quality as a huge goal and motivator, Lance builds truck campers and travel trailers. Some of their original models from the 60s are still on the road today, something that’s wonderful to be able to claim and something I’m especially drawn to since I own a vintage trailer myself!
Lance’s outstanding craftsmanship and high-quality materials make their travel trailers special, but you don’t have to just take my word for it! Not only has Lance won multiple awards for their building supplies, but they also strive to in building an eco-friendly and toxin-free RV, which is great news for RVers and our planet. Lance offers a two-year limited warranty and their customer satisfaction knows no bounds.
They often have repeat customers over the years who wouldn’t trade their Lance for another RV brand, and their dealers are specially trained in Lance’s unique products. Speaking of products, while Lance only makes travel trailers up to 25 feet in length, you can count on their RVs lasting a lifetime. The Azdel walls and sturdy frames keep customers coming back to Lance year after year.
Airstream
It doesn’t get more classic than an Airstream travel trailer. These rigs are surprisingly light, and you can easily find these aluminum beauties for under 8,000 pounds. While the Airstream bullet shape we know and love wasn’t created until the 1960s, Airstream has long been regarded as one of the first travel trailer brands.
Created as early as the 1920s, you can bet that purchasing an Airstream is an excellent decision. According to Airstream, 70% of original Airstreams are still on the road today. This is no doubt due to their quality construction and overall customer support. These rigs are wonderful travel trailers to add to your shortlist.
Coachmen
You already know Coachmen is a division of Forest River, but what you may not know is that Coachmen is invested in building affordable and family-friendly rigs. Whether it be a Class A, Class C, or travel trailer, Coachmen has you and your family covered without breaking the bank.
Coachmen offers a variety of travel trailers at many different price points and sizes, including extra-long rigs and those weighing less than 8,000 pounds. They also offer unparalleled customer support and services so it’s easy to know where to head if any problems arise. There’s also an owner’s association so you can keep in touch with other Coachmen rig owners and share tips, tricks, and inspiration about life on the road.
Winnebago
Winnebago is another classic name in the RV game, and their travel trailers are chic and affordable. They have around six different travel trailers on the market currently, with even more Class Cs and Class Bs to consider as well.
Founded in the early 1960s, Winnebago is dedicated to its customers and their overall satisfaction. Winnebago has spent decades improving their products and relationship with customers, and this seems to have proven effective year after year.
Tips For Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds
Looking for some additional tips to consider before purchasing a travel trailer under 8000 pounds? Check out these helpful facts below, or skip ahead to our full trailer list!
Distribute Weight Evenly
If you’re new to RVing, especially towing with a travel trailer, it’s essential to understand how important it is to distribute your weight evenly. There’s a lot to understand about travel trailer weight, including how to increase your RV’s tongue weight capacity. Having an RV with unevenly distributed weight can spell disaster if you’re not careful, and put the trailer and everyone on vacation in danger.
While a travel trailer is built to distribute weight evenly when empty or dry, it’s up to you to pack your rig well in order to avoid unsafe road conditions. Swaying and rocking back and forth can be extremely dangerous, and this tends to be caused by unevenly weighted rigs.
Take your time when packing up your travel trailer, especially if you’ve not done it before. Keeping your travel trailer from shaking is a key step for you to take, especially if your travel trailer weighs less than 8,000 pounds! I find it useful to make a list of everything I need to pack so I don’t end up bringing items I don’t need which will increase weight unnecessarily.
Practice Hitching Up
Hitching up safely and efficiently is key for any new travel trailer owner to understand. It’s easy to make mistakes when hitching up, which in turn can lead to unsafe driving conditions, and even damage your tow vehicle or RV. My biggest piece of advice would be to be patient and take things slow while you’re hitching up.
Practicing backing your trailer into place before hitting the road for vacation will help make you feel confident when it’s time to get set up at the campground or lake! It’s never a bad idea to weigh your travel trailer at home as well, just to ensure you’ve purchased the proper hitch and know how much your rig weighs when it’s fully packed up.
This means the travel trailer won’t be overloaded and your tow vehicle shouldn’t have any issues pulling your trailer along to the next location of the summer family vacation!
Get Creative With Storage
There’s more to your RV’s storage than meets the eye, especially if you take the time to get it exactly how you want it. From keeping your sewer hose in your RV’s bumper to having an onboard generator, storage is key to a happy vacation.
You can always purchase additional shelves and storage capabilities, or various closet organizers to maximize your existing storage. Practicing packing is something most RVers do as well, so don’t be afraid to get creative and find the solutions that work best for you and your needs.
Check Out Any Non-Standard Features
While you’re shopping for a new travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, you may consider taking a look at the non-standard features available. These features could be anything from a second AC unit to additional awnings, or increased solar power on the roof.
Your budget may not be large enough for all the extra features, but it may be worth investing in some of them, especially if you’re looking to complete plenty of off-grid camping. I travel full-time, through the four seasons, which means an all-season package, solar panels, and a hot water heater upgrade would be particularly useful for me.
Get Stabilizers
A stable travel trailer is a happy travel trailer- but this can be easier said than done. There are many different jack stands and stabilizers worth considering and for good reason! Having a stable and level RV helps with the overall life of your travel trailer’s frame, and will only increase your enjoyment while inside it. Stabilizers are the number one item to purchase for helping against dreaded travel trailer shaking.
While you may not think of this as a big deal or concern when you first start camping, it will soon become apparent to you once you walk around in your RV without stabilizers and it’s a bit wobbly! Some new travel trailers come with built-in stabilizers, and if so, you’re lucky as you won’t need to worry about making another purchase.
9 Best Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds
Are you ready to look at some of the best travel trailers under 8,000 pounds? Hopefully, you know the layout and feel you’re looking for, as well as your budget and towing capacity. Let’s take a look at these rigs now!
Best Overall: Forest River Grey Wolf
With 13 different floor plans for the Forest River Grey Wolf travel trailer and 5 layout options for the toy hauler model, there’s plenty to love about the Grey Wolf. Since all of the options available weigh less than 8,000 pounds, it’s no surprise the Grey Wolf is a top contender in the mid-size travel trailer world.
The Grey Wolf doesn’t appear to have very many bells and whistles from the outside, but after living and camping full-time, the sheer number of these rigs I see at campgrounds must have something to do with their reliability and popularity! Their largest travel trailer model comes in at almost 37 feet and weighs just over 6,000 pounds.
This is a significant amount of travel trailer living space, ideal for both my partner and me to live comfortably, and there’s even ample space for our furry companion too! As you can see in the tour video above, the interior of the Grey Wolf is sleek, modern, and surprisingly spacious. Speaking of space, there are ample sleeping arrangements with this travel trailer, such as multiple sleeping sofas, bunkhouse models, and more depending on specific floorplans.
I love the overall flexibility and versatility of the Grey Wolf, as it’s possible to purchase either the standard travel trailer model or the toy hauler rig so I can bring adventure gear like our SUP boards and kayak along for the adventure. There are smaller Grey Wolf trailers too, some as small as 20 feet in length, which may be a better option for solo travelers, or those looking for a smaller rig for weekend getaways than full-time travel.
Some floor plans offer a full tub, an 11 cubic-foot residential fridge, and relaxing electric fireplaces, which I would use every winter evening to snuggle up in the comfortable seating areas. The addition of the Base Camp package is something I would opt for to improve my experience on the road, as it includes underbelly armor, outdoor hot and cold showers, a quick-connect RV grill for effortless outdoor cooking, and more.
It would be nice for some of the optional extra features such as the off-road tire addition with the Adventure Package to be standard since these aren’t the cheapest rigs out there. However, I guess it’s awesome to have these kinds of options available in the first place.
Forest River offers a comprehensive roadside assistance package as well as a limited warranty, allowing me to confidently put my faith in their rigs. Each and every travel trailer goes through detailed inspections before being shipped, so I can rest easy in Forest River’s hand and trust their rigs will last for many camping seasons to come.
Best On A Budget: Jay Flight SLX 8
It’s hard to comprehend all the perks of this Jayco travel trailer, especially for the price! With 7 unique floor plans on offer, the Jayco Jay Flight SLX is a wonderful travel trailer for RVers seeking a reliable brand and large living space, but at a budget-friendly price. The smallest floorplan is the 154BHW which weighs just shy of 3,000 lbs and measures 18 feet on the dot! This layout may not be the best fitting for a large family, but thanks to the innovative bunk beds, it’s possible to sleep four!
Jayco is proud to offer some of the most solid frames in the RV business. With trusses made from structural steel and a seamless roof with a 20-year warranty, I trust I’m in good hands with Jayco. Their customer service is also recognized for being supportive and helpful, which is what I need from RV manufacturers.
The interior of each of the Jay Flight models is far more appealing than I would expect from such budget-friendly trailers. Standard interior equipment includes solid hardwood cabinets, a premium multimedia sound system, durable and fashionable laminate flooring, and residential countertops. These high-quality finishes and thoughtful touches work well to make these trailers feel more like a house than an RV!
Solar isn’t a standard option with the Jay Flight which is a little disappointing since an increasing number of RVers want to head off-grid and support their electricity usage. However, solar power is possible with the purchase of Jayco’s Overlander 1 Solar Package which offers a 200W panel and a 30-amp controller. Since these rigs are so budget-friendly, it may even be feasible to dive right in and also opt for the Baja package which boasts Goodyear off-road tires, stabilizer jacks, powder-coated wheel fenders, and more!
Many models feature cozy bunk beds with privacy screens, efficient and compact outdoor kitchens, and ample storage both inside and out, so there’s no more arguing over the delegation of belongings and their temporary homes in the RV. Jayco is also one of the best RV manufacturers in terms of warranty which also helps bring about plenty of peace!
The Jay Flight comes complete with a two-year limited warranty, a three-year structural warranty, and countless individual warranties for the many features and finishes inside and out of the trailer. While the Jay Flight may not quite have the luxurious edge of the Airstream Flying Cloud, there’s still lots to appreciate with the Jay Flight, and it’s hard to argue with such a friendly budget!
Best For Boondocking: Forest River Ibex
It’s possible to still hit the road and be adventurous, even in a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds! In fact, all 11 floorplans on offer with the Forest River Ibex are all under 6,000 pounds, with countless boondocking perks for campers wanting to explore nature and not spend days at the campground. Off-grid camping is how I prefer to spend most of my time, and the Ibex is the ideal rig, equipped with everything needed for a successful boondocking experience.
To kick things off, the Ibex features a significantly higher clearance than many of the other trailers on our list. Also, unlike our last option, the Jay Flight SLX, all-terrain tires come standard, which signifies how much thought Forest River has poured into creating the Ibex. Some of the floorplans such as the 19QBS have solar already installed, and for ultimate off-griding, I can upgrade to a 500W solar setup with a 3,000W inverter so I know everything on-board can be powered whenever needed.
Forest River also offers toy hauler models of the Ibex and there are 3 layouts available. The largest one is the 24MTH with a UVW of 6,660 pounds and an exterior length of 30′ 0″. This flexibility from Forest River is one of the reasons they’ve been in the RV game for so long, offering solo travelers, couples, and families alike, reliable rigs able to keep everyone safe while magical memories are made.
I’m particularly drawn to Forest River’s high standards, which complete the Ibex with Azdel walls, underbelly insulation, and a 15-year warranty for the seamless roof. It seems this rig is built to last for generations to come, and will remain a classic, attractive rig on the road.
The main drawback to the Ibex has to be its rather beige interior, but I think this can easily be brightened up with some trinkets, photos on the wall, and familiar belongings. All of the appliances in the Ibex are stainless steel, making them modern and easy to clean which is a huge bonus in my eyes, especially when the whole family comes around to visit!
Best of all, the Ibex comes complete with Forest River’s customer service as well as various warranties to support the robust rig. Having solar and a cold weather package as standard features? That’s a great perk to have in a travel trailer under 8000 pounds if I do say so myself!
Highest Sleeping Capacity: Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite
As a division of Forest River, Coachmen has many RVs and travel trailers to offer that are both built to a high standard and also won’t break the bank. The Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite has much more than just affordability to offer, as these models are also lightweight and have impressively high sleeping capacities. This is great news for large families or those looking to head out into the wilderness with a group of friends for the weekend.
There are 13 unique Apex floor plans, with some measuring 8 feet wide and others 7.5 feet wide. Having the ability to drive a narrow rig can be beneficial, especially for full-timers like me who live in their home on wheels and sometimes stumble upon challenging roads and questionable terrain. The largest Apex floor plan is the 300BHS which weighs just under 6,000 pounds dry, has an exterior length of 34′ 5″, and has the astonishing capability of sleeping 10 people!
Since this is less than 35 feet in length, it’s an ideal size for most RV parks and campgrounds, so I can dodge any hassle when I arrive at the campground towing my Apex Ultra-Lite. Speaking of floor plans, many Apex models feature fireplaces, entertainment centers, and theatre seating to bring plenty of comfort to any vacation. Many floor plans also feature sectional sofas, expansive kitchens, and residential-sized bathrooms that make traveling with others an absolute breeze.
That isn’t where the perks stop, however. The Apex also has an entirely fiberglass exterior so I don’t have to worry about battling the elements while camping. Since outdoor speakers and a small solar setup are also present with the Apex, it seems Coachmen really have tried to cover everything! I like that there’s the option to upgrade to a 50 amp service and add another AC as these are features I think are well worth investing in, especially for full-time life on the road.
The Apex has a modest interior with classy hardware cabinetry and a two-tone color scheme. It’s a little plain for my personal taste, but nothing some simple wall decor, cushions, and throws wouldn’t spruce up! Compared to other RVs such as Jayco’s two and three-year warranties, Coachmen’s one-year warranty is a little disappointing. Luckily, they have a roadside assistance program and an owner’s club which helps make up for the small warranty!
Most Storage: Winnebago Voyage
Winning RV News’ award for the best travel trailer in 2022, it’s no surprise there’s a lot on offer with the Winnebago Voyage. This travel trailer is under 8,000 pounds and has innovative storage solutions fit for families and travel groups. The two largest floorplans sadly creep a little above 8,000 pounds, but there are 4 other layout options, weighing far less. I love the variety of floorplans as it makes finding a suitable layout easy, and there’s a range of lengths too which is great for RVers storing their trailers outside with limited space.
A kitchen truly is the heart of any home for me, and this is no different in RVs! The kitchens in each Voyage floorplan are attractive and adorned with residential-style cabinetry and a full-size refrigerator, great for keeping food fresh on the road. Nearly every Winnebago Voyage model features washer and dryer prep along with walk-around king beds, making me feel even more at home.
Claiming it has storage around every corner as well as walk-in pantry options, the Voyage is a winner just from sheer square footage alone. It even offers Murphy bed options allowing for additional storage. RVs can be a range of sizes, and smart storage is the best way to utilize limited space even the most modest-sized rigs.
The floor plans, while not all of them are under 8,000 pounds, offer a lot of unique positioning, no doubt in an effort to maximize storage. Having a fridge located in a slide-out is not often seen in RVs, but I think it helps maximize the interior living space! Winnebago has been around for a long time, and they know how to care for their customers.
With competitive warranties, Winnebago promises their RVs are fit to take on big adventures with the whole family for many years to come. Winnebago is known for manufacturing rigs that don’t cost the earth, however, even the smallest Voyage floorplan, the V2427RB, starts at over $60k which is still a substantial investment! It’s far cheaper than other travel trailers on the market, and even though the Voyage is a relatively new rig, it’s already making waves.
With unique floor plan choices and a huge amount of storage, this travel trailer ticks a bunch of boxes for me and is worth the price for a reliable name and durable trailer.
Best For The Whole Family: Jayco Jay Feather
I mentioned the Jay Feather travel trailer earlier when talking about Jayco’s most popular models. This particular RV has been a crowd favorite for decades, and with 10 floorplans, all weighing under 8,000 pounds, there’s ample choice! Since all of the layouts of this travel trailer are lightweight, towing isn’t a big concern.
The variety of sizes with the Jay Feather is impressive, with the smallest floorplan measuring just 24′ long, and the largest, 33′ 2″. This allows multiple people to fit inside the travel trailer, which I need as sometimes things can get a bit too tight when the whole family shows up at the campground to join in with the fun! I like that Jayco hasn’t put interior design on the backburner with the Jay Feather, and the inside is simply beautiful.
The 27BHB floorplan can sleep up to nine individuals, whilst also boasting a large indoor kitchen and handy outside kitchen, a pantry, a full bathroom with shower, and ample storage throughout. A Jayco rig is always built to last. With vacuum-bonded floors and walls, I can rest easy knowing leaking is unlikely, which is the kind of reassurance I need as I travel year-round come rain or shine!
The Jay Feather also comes with a one-piece, seamless roof with a 20-year warranty, so I can enjoy the trailer season after season. There are two interior design options on this rig as well, though they are both a bit similar. However, the cool greys and modern farmhouse design appeal to a wide variety of people, especially when paired with dark wood trim and finishes. Speaking of space, this travel trailer has ample storage, both inside and out.
There’s overhead master bedroom wardrobe space and a kitchen that rivals many studio apartment kitchens. Plus, the bathroom is fantastic, with a huge rounded shower that truly stands out and is a rarety in smaller RVs and travel trailers!
Most Stylish: Airstream Flying Cloud
RVs aren’t always the best-looking vehicles on the road, however, there’s something undeniably eye-catching about an Airstream, and the Flying Cloud is no exception. Although priced at nearly $100k, the Airstream has a classic style with robust foundations beneath. Airstream travel trailers are known for their striking designs, both inside and out, and the Flying Cloud has plenty to showcase.
Besides the silver bullet design of the Flying Cloud, I noticed an immediate lightness upon entering. This is thanks to the light wood interior and leather finishes that seem to make the space come to life without being too bold. Style is infused into every floor plan of the Flying Cloud, and since there are 8 layouts to choose from, it’s not hard to find the best match.
Most of the floorplans are under 8,000 pounds, and some even have unique labels such as “office” or “bunk”, adding to the versatility of this travel trailer. Although the aluminum shell catches my eye from the offset, the interior of the Airstream Flying Cloud is something to be just as impressed with. Light wood walls, cabinetry, and trim, all aid in making the space feel high-end. Quality appliances and a full-size fridge in the kitchen make cooking on the road an absolute joy.
Airstream makes great use of space, especially given their uniquely shaped rigs. Among the floorplans, it’s possible to find U-shaped dinettes and beds along with convertible furniture, all of which are tear, stain, and scratch-resistant. There’s also a fantastic level of climate control happening inside the Airstream Flying Cloud, and with quiet and efficient heating and cooling, my partner and I will always feel comfortable, no matter the season.
Owning an Airstream becomes almost like a way of life, and many Airstream owners can attest to this. This is also true given how long Airstream trailers last. Between warranties and quality construction, a Flying Cloud should last a lifetime. The main drawback to the Flying Cloud as I touched upon earlier, has to be the price. Most Airstreams are out of the average RVer’s budget, however, those who can afford a classic trailer such as the Flying Cloud won’t be disappointed.
Best For Couples: Heartland Mallard RV
Heartland may not be the best-known brand of travel trailers, but they do make sturdy, efficient ones such as the Mallard RV that’s ideal for couples and even small families alike. The Mallard travel trailer is ideal for couples given its small size and ease of towing since it’s just over 22′ in length and weighs 4,534 pounds. This travel trailer is small, but Heartland has still jam-packed the Mallard with a wide range of features.
This rig has an open concept, allowing for ample floor space, great for when flurry companions come on board for summer vacation. There are 14 various floorplans to choose from, all of which are under 8,000 pounds except for the largest floorplan, the M335, with a dry weight of just over 8,000 pounds. Each floorplan is unique, yet all have a high-end feel with attractive kitchen spaces equipped with infinity countertops and a stainless sink.
Even the smaller floorplans can sleep a minimum of 3 people, so although this trailer is perfect for couples due to its compact size, a small family can get cozy in a Mallard RV too! The aerodynamic design of the Mallard helps when towing on the road, and the power awning and exterior lights, mean the outdoors can be enjoyed no matter the time of day!
The two interior design options are stunning, although it would be nice to have a couple more options for those who fancy some bolder colors. However, it’s easy to personalize an RV, and once you’ve been on the road for a few days, it’ll feel like home in no time. I’m drawn to the addition of slides across the various floorplans, as they help open up the space so much more. But slides are another component that needs maintaining, so don’t forget this when choosing your lightweight travel trailer!
Ideal For Solo Travel: Grand Design RV Imagine AIM
Weighing as little as 3,600 pounds, the Grand Design RV Imagine AIM is an ideal choice for solo travelers looking for a trailer under 8,000 pounds. The AIM can be towed effortlessly by even the most modest of SUVs and still has a wealth of features able to bring comfort and functionality to any camping trip. Constructed with fully laminated walls, along with a double insulated floor, roof, and front cap, this small but mighty rig has great temperature control, ideal for all-season travel.
The AIM has four floorplans, ranging in length from 19′ 11″ to 21′ 11″, so towing the trailer shouldn’t be too daunting, and it can fit on a small driveway for storage too! The 15RB layout is the second smallest and packs plenty of punch for solo travelers. The interior is surprisingly light and airy, but the booth dinette helps bring some much-needed comfort to the space. I love that there’s still a full bathroom with shower, skylight, and even storage space for linens, as this means there’s no compromising on home comforts like a toilet or shower.
The queen-sized Murphy bed allows for more space during the day when it isn’t needed, and the pass-thru storage is a game-changer for keeping outdoor equipment and spare gear out of the way. The kitchen is quite basic and offers the essentials such as countertops, storage, a two-burner stovetop, and stainless steel sink. I’d like to have a bit more prep space and an oven on board for baking up sweet treats, but I believe anything is possible with just good ingredients, a sturdy pan, and a stovetop!
This Grand Design Imagine AIM isn’t the one for large families or those wanting to tow a big, mighty travel trailer, but for solo RVers, the AIM is hard to beat and starts at a very friendly price point too! Rving can cost a substantial amount, and if you’re leaning towards towing a trailer, it’s vital to opt for one your vehicle can handle rather than having to replace your tow vehicle too! Overall, the Imagine AIM is a great find that’s gentle on the bank, a breeze to tow, and an attractive rig to haul down the highway.
Final Thoughts
Finding a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds is much easier than you may think. There are even more options than the ones we’ve listed, but these campers are a good place to start the search! No matter your needs, there’s an RV out there able to meet your expectations (and towing capacity!).