The Subaru Outback is a rugged backcountry vehicle with a towing capacity of 2,700 to 3,500 pounds. This means it can tow small RVs, teardrop trailers, and pop-up campers. While it cannot tow a full-sized RV, it can handle many small campers. The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester also have impressive towing capabilities, with the ability to pull lightweight campers and boats. The Subaru Ascent, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, is the most powerful Subaru for towing and can handle larger campers and trailers.
What You'll Learn
- The Subaru Outback can tow small, lightweight campers
- The Subaru Forester can tow teardrop campers, some pop-ups, and smaller travel trailers
- The Subaru Crosstrek can tow lightweight boats, motorcycles, compact campers, and utility trailers
- The Subaru Ascent can tow campers, vacation trailers, and some midsize SUVs
- The Subaru Legacy, BRZ, WRX, and WRX STI are not recommended for towing
The Subaru Outback can tow small, lightweight campers
The Subaru Outback is a versatile vehicle that combines the benefits of an SUV with the advantages of a sedan. While it may not be able to tow a full-sized RV, its towing capacity of 2700 to 3500 pounds means it can handle a variety of small and lightweight campers. This makes the Subaru Outback a great option for those who want the convenience of towing a small trailer without having to drive a large truck or SUV.
There are several types of campers that are well-suited to the Subaru Outback's towing capacity. Teardrop campers, for example, typically weigh between 500 and 3200 pounds and offer sleeping space for two adults, a small galley for cooking, and storage for clothes and other necessities. Similarly, pop-up campers, which have a fabric shell and offer amenities like a basic kitchen and heating or air conditioning, usually weigh between 700 and 3800 pounds. The Subaru Outback can also tow some small travel trailers, which can weigh less than 2700 pounds and may include features like kitchens and bathrooms.
When choosing a camper to tow with your Subaru Outback, it's important to consider the weight of your gear and personal belongings in addition to the weight of the camper itself. It's also recommended to install a hitch receiver, a hitch and ball, and a wiring harness before towing. Additionally, keep in mind that the Subaru Outback does not come standard with a tow package, so you may need to install one if you plan to tow a camper.
- Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD: This pop-up camper has a dry weight of 1,514 pounds and offers features like a kitchenette, a four-person dinette booth, and sleeping space for up to six people.
- Timberleaf Pika: Designed for off-grid and dry camping, the Timberleaf Pika has a dry weight of 1,465 pounds and includes features like a rear outdoor galley kitchen and an onboard 12V electrical system.
- KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB: With a dry weight of just over 2,000 pounds, this fully self-contained travel trailer includes a two-piece dry bath, a kitchenette, sleeping space for three, and a fresh, grey, and black water tank.
- Scamp Trailer: The iconic Scamp Trailer is made of lightweight fiberglass and can be customized to your needs. It has a dry weight of 1,200 to 1,500 pounds, depending on the floor plan, and can sleep two to four people.
- Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12S: This small teardrop camper has a dry weight of 1,903 pounds and includes features like a full outdoor kitchenette, a gaucho couch that converts into a bed, an AC and furnace, and a solar panel.
- Happier Camper HC1: Introduced in 2015, the Happier Camper HC1 has a dry weight of 1,100 pounds and features a flexible modular interior that can be customized to your needs.
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The Subaru Forester can tow teardrop campers, some pop-ups, and smaller travel trailers
The Subaru Forester is a great option for those who want to tow a small camper. With a towing capacity of 1,500 to 3,000 pounds, the Forester can handle teardrop campers, some pop-up campers, and smaller travel trailers.
Teardrop campers are a great option for the Subaru Forester as they are compact and lightweight. These campers typically weigh between 500 and 3,200 pounds, with an average weight of 1,500 pounds. They offer a small galley for cooking, sleeping space for two adults, and storage for clothes and other necessities. When choosing a teardrop camper, it is important to consider the total weight, including your gear, to ensure it does not exceed the towing capacity of your Forester.
Some pop-up campers can also be towed by the Subaru Forester. These campers offer a spacious interior and many amenities, such as a basic kitchen and heating and air conditioning. Pop-up campers typically weigh between 700 and 3,800 pounds, so it is important to choose one that falls within the towing capacity of your Forester.
In addition to teardrop campers and pop-ups, the Subaru Forester can also tow some small travel trailers. These trailers may include features such as kitchens and bathrooms, but it is important to consider the total weight, including your gear, to ensure it does not exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle.
When towing a camper with your Subaru Forester, it is important to install the necessary equipment, such as a hitch receiver, a hitch and ball, and a wiring harness. Additionally, always refer to your owner's manual and consult with a professional to ensure your vehicle is properly equipped and capable of handling the weight of your camper.
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The Subaru Crosstrek can tow lightweight boats, motorcycles, compact campers, and utility trailers
The Subaru Crosstrek is a versatile vehicle that can tow a variety of lightweight loads. While its towing capacity varies depending on the model year and trim, it typically ranges from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds. This makes the Crosstrek capable of handling various towing tasks, including lightweight boats, motorcycles, compact campers, and utility trailers.
When it comes to boats, the Crosstrek can easily tow lightweight aluminum or fiberglass boats. These boats are a perfect fit for the Crosstrek's capacity and provide a great option for those looking to enjoy water-based adventures. For those with a passion for two-wheeled adventures, the Crosstrek is also up to the task. It can comfortably tow a motorcycle trailer, allowing riders to explore new trails and roads with ease.
For camping enthusiasts, the Subaru Crosstrek is a reliable companion. It can tow compact and lightweight campers, making it ideal for those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors without compromising on comfort. With a Crosstrek, you can bring along your cozy accommodations to any scenic destination. Additionally, the Crosstrek is a practical choice for those needing to haul equipment or supplies. It can handle lightweight utility trailers, making it a versatile option for various projects and tasks.
It's important to note that while the Subaru Crosstrek is a capable towing vehicle, it's always essential to stay within its recommended capacity limits. Exceeding the maximum towing capacity can strain the vehicle and lead to potential damage. Therefore, it's crucial to consider the weight of the load, including any additional gear or cargo, to ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience with your Subaru Crosstrek.
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The Subaru Ascent can tow campers, vacation trailers, and some midsize SUVs
The Subaru Ascent is the largest vehicle in the Subaru range and has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This high towing capacity means the Ascent can tow most aluminium or fibreglass boats, motorcycle trailers, lightweight utility trailers, horse trailers, and some campers or vacation trailers.
The Subaru Ascent's high towing capacity means it can tow a range of campers, from small teardrop trailers to larger pop-up campers and mid-sized travel trailers. The Ascent's towing capacity is comparable to other popular midsize SUVs, such as the Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot, and Nissan Pathfinder.
When it comes to specific camper models, the Ascent can tow options such as the Airstream Basecamp 16, Keystone Hideout 179LHS, Jayco Hummingbird 17RB, and Little Guy Max. These campers offer a range of features, including full kitchens and bathrooms, sleeping capacity for multiple people, and ample storage space.
It's important to note that while the Ascent has impressive towing capabilities, it's always crucial to stay within the recommended weight limits and follow safe towing practices to avoid overloading your vehicle. Additionally, some campers may require additional accessories or modifications to your Ascent for safe towing.
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The Subaru Legacy, BRZ, WRX, and WRX STI are not recommended for towing
The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, is a popular choice for those who want to tow a camper. With a towing capacity of 2700 to 3500 pounds, it can handle a variety of small and lightweight campers. Some popular options include the Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD, the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB, and the Scamp Trailer. Keep in mind that the weight of your gear and the number of people in the car will also affect the towing capacity, so it's important to stay within the recommended range to avoid permanent damage to your vehicle.
If you're looking for a more powerful option, the Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5000 pounds and is capable of handling some campers or vacation trailers. However, the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester have lower towing capacities, at 1500 pounds and 1500 to 3000 pounds, respectively, so they may not be suitable for towing larger campers.
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Frequently asked questions
The towing capacity of a Subaru Outback is 2700 to 3500 pounds, depending on the model year, trim level, and options.
Yes, a Subaru Outback can tow a camper. Its towing capacity makes it suitable for small, lightweight campers, teardrop campers, and some pop-up campers and medium-sized travel trailers.
Some campers that can be towed by a Subaru Outback include the Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD, Scamp Trailer, Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12S, and Happier Camper HC1.
It is important to know the exact weight of your trailer and ensure it does not exceed the Subaru Outback's towing capacity. You may also need to install a tow package or a tow hitch if your vehicle did not come with one.
Yes, other Subaru models with higher towing capacities, such as the Subaru Ascent, can also tow campers. The Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of 5000 pounds and can handle larger campers and travel trailers.