Subaru's Camper-Hauling Capabilities: Can It Be Done?

can a subaru haul a camper

If you're looking to hit the road in a camper, you might be wondering if your Subaru is up to the task. The short answer is yes—a Subaru can indeed haul a camper. But there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, not all campers are created equal; some are much heavier than others, and you'll need to ensure your Subaru has the necessary towing capacity. The Subaru Forester, for example, has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, while the 2022 model can tow up to 3,000 lbs if equipped with an oil cooler. The Subaru Outback has an even higher towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, allowing it to pull small to medium-sized campers with ease.

When choosing a camper, it's crucial to consider not just the weight of the camper itself but also the weight of your gear and equipment. You don't want to overload your Subaru and risk damaging the transmission or engine. Additionally, the distribution of weight inside the camper is important for maintaining control and balance while driving.

So, if you're looking to embark on a camping adventure with your Subaru, just be sure to choose a camper that's within its towing capacity and always pack wisely!

Characteristics Values
Vehicle Model Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester
Engine Power 2.5L-inline 4-cylinder engine, 182 horsepower
Towing Capacity 1,500 lbs – 3,500 lbs depending on the model and year
Camper Type Lightweight, small campers, pop-up campers, teardrop campers
Additional Features All-wheel drive, spacious interior, good fuel economy

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Subaru Forester's towing capacity

The Subaru Forester is a compact-size crossover with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. This is due to the changing standards of certifying the tow weight capacity of vehicles. The Forester is the only compact crossover that is rated for as much as 10% hitch weight, with a hitch weight rating of 150 lbs. This is important for better weight distribution and safer handling when towing.

The Subaru Forester's low towing capacity limits what types of campers you can tow with it. While you won't be able to tow full-size camper trailers, there are smaller types available. Pop-up and teardrop campers are among the favourites for Subaru Forester owners. Teardrop campers can weigh as little as 500 lbs, while the largest can weigh over 3,000 lbs. Pop-up campers usually weigh just under 1,500 lbs, and are very popular for novice drivers as they fold down into a neat little package.

The 2022-2024 Subaru Forester models have an optional Class II tow hitch receiver, which increases the towing capacity to 3,000 lbs when properly equipped. The 2024 model has a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder engine, allowing towing up to 3,000 lbs when properly equipped. The powertrain is capable of 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

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Camper weight

The weight of a camper varies depending on its type, size, length, features, and amenities. Generally, a camper can weigh anywhere from as little as 500 lbs to upwards of 16,000 lbs.

Small travel trailers usually have a dry weight of 1,100 to 3,500 lbs and a gross weight of 2,000 to 6,000 lbs. Small campers have a small cargo capacity of about 800 lbs, but some models can carry up to 1,300 lbs.

The weight of a camper also depends on its features and amenities. For example, travel trailers with many amenities such as refrigerators, air conditioning, sinks, slide-outs, and a fully equipped kitchen will weigh significantly more than trailers with fewer amenities. Water tanks can add over 400 lbs to the weight of a trailer, and inbuilt generators will also increase the weight.

When considering the weight of a camper, it's important to think about the cargo weight as well. This includes gear, equipment, consumables, and passengers. All of these factors contribute to the overall weight of the camper and can impact its towing capacity.

The Subaru Outback, for example, has a towing capacity of 2,700 lbs. This means that the weight of the camper being towed cannot exceed this limit. The Happier Camper, weighing in at just 1,100 lbs, is a good option for the Subaru Outback as it falls within its towing capacity.

Another example is the Subaru Forester, which has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. This limits the types of campers it can tow to smaller options such as pop-up campers and teardrop campers.

When towing a camper, it's crucial to distribute the weight properly to ensure safe handling. The weight distribution can impact the trailer's behaviour on the road, and it's important to stay within the maximum hitch weight rating to avoid safety risks.

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Towing safety

When towing a camper with a Subaru, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to choose a camper that is within the towing capacity of your specific Subaru model. Different Subaru models have different towing capacities, so be sure to check the specifications for your vehicle. For example, the Subaru Forester has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, while the Subaru Outback has a capacity of 2,700 lbs when properly equipped.

Secondly, proper weight distribution is crucial for safe towing. When packing your camper, ensure that the weight is distributed evenly and that the hitch weight does not exceed the recommended limit. For the Subaru Forester, the hitch weight rating is 150 lbs. To improve weight distribution and handling, aim for 60% of the combined weight of the camper and cargo to be in the front half of the camper.

Another important consideration is trailer trajectory. When towing a trailer, the rear of the trailer will follow the movements of the vehicle. Practice turning and reversing with the trailer attached in a safe, private location to get a feel for how the trailer moves.

When towing a camper, it is also important to be mindful of your braking distance. The added weight of the camper can affect your stopping distance, so leave extra room between you and the vehicle ahead. Additionally, you can use your engine to slow down by shifting to a lower gear, which will cause the engine's RPM to slow you down naturally. Practice this technique in a safe area before trying it on the road.

Finally, always inspect your Subaru and the trailer before embarking on your trip. Check the fluids, brakes, wiring harness, brake lights, and tow hitch. Ensure that all tires on the vehicle and trailer are in good condition and get them changed if any damage is found.

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Camper types

When it comes to camper types, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique features and advantages. Here are some of the most common types of campers that can be towed by a Subaru:

  • Pop-up campers: These are lightweight and easy to tow, making them a popular choice for Subaru owners. Pop-up campers can be expanded for camping and collapsed into a much smaller size during travel. They often resemble tents on wheels but usually include essential amenities for camping. Pop-up campers typically weigh under 1,500 lbs, making them suitable for towing by a Subaru.
  • Teardrop campers: Named for their distinctive shape, teardrop campers are another budget-friendly option. They offer a comfortable amount of headroom for adults and typically include essential amenities. Teardrop campers usually weigh around 1,400 lbs, with some models coming in under 1,000 lbs, making them well within the towing capacity of a Subaru.
  • A-frame campers: These campers differ from teardrop campers mainly in their shape, offering more headroom. They typically weigh between 1,200 and 2,300 lbs, which is still within the towing capacity of some Subaru models.
  • Small camper trailers: While larger camper trailers can weigh upwards of 3,000 lbs, some smaller camper trailers can weigh as little as 1,400 lbs, making them suitable for towing by a Subaru. These trailers usually include essential amenities such as a kitchen, sleeping area, and bathroom.
  • Happier Camper: The Happier Camper is a lightweight, versatile option, weighing just 1,100 lbs. It offers customisable interior layouts, solar power capabilities, and ample sleeping and living space. Its compact size makes it suitable for towing by a Subaru Outback.

It's important to note that the towing capacity of a Subaru can vary depending on the model and region. Always refer to the specific towing capacity of your vehicle before attempting to tow any camper.

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Subaru Outback's features

The Subaru Outback is a technologically advanced and luxurious SUV with impressive features. Here are some of the key features of the Outback:

Performance and Capability

The Outback is equipped with a 2.5-litre Subaru Boxer engine, delivering 182 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency. The direct-injection turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine option provides 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque for extra power. The standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system optimises traction in various conditions, including snow, rain, and off-road terrain. The Outback also offers up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance and X-MODE for enhanced performance on slippery surfaces and downhill descents.

Towing Capacity

The Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, allowing you to bring bikes, kayaks, and other gear on your adventures. The Onyx Edition, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT trims come with a standard accessory trailer hitch.

Safety Features

The Outback prioritises safety with its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as Automatic Emergency Steering, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, and Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering. The Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert systems further enhance safety by warning you of vehicles in your blind spots and traffic approaching from the sides. The vehicle also offers Reverse Automatic Braking and a Smart Rear-View Mirror for added visibility and collision avoidance.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Outback provides ample passenger and cargo space, with up to 109 cubic feet of passenger room and 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space, even with a full load of passengers. The rear seats can be folded down easily, providing up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. The vehicle features an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. It also includes USB-C charging ports and a hands-free power rear gate for added convenience.

Exterior Design and Versatility

The Outback's exterior combines functionality and style, with protective cladding and raised ground clearance. The standard raised roof rails provide additional versatility for carrying equipment, and the integrated crossbars can be folded away when not in use. The Outback's design minimises blind spots and improves visibility in all directions, making it a safe and confident choice for any adventure.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, a Subaru Outback can tow a camper. It has a maximum towing capacity of 3500 lbs and can pull teardrop trailers, pop-up campers, and small to medium-sized travel trailers.

Some campers that can be towed by a Subaru Outback include the Happier Camper, the Braxton Creek Bushwhacker, the Forest River Rockwood, and the Little Guy Trailers Meerkat.

It is important to stay within the towing capacity of the vehicle and to distribute the weight properly. The weight of the camper, gear, equipment, and consumables should not exceed the maximum towing capacity. Additionally, it is recommended to load 60% of the weight in the front half of the camper to improve handling and avoid swaying.

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