Jeep Wranglers' Camper Towing Capacity Explored

The Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle for those who love off-road adventures. But what if you want to bring more than what fits in the Jeep? The Jeep Wrangler's towing capacity varies by year, trim level, and engine specs. The 2-door Jeep Wrangler has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, while the 4-door models have a maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler has an increased towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This allows you to bring small to medium travel campers, boats, jet skis, and other adventure toys.

When considering towing a camper with your Jeep Wrangler, it is important to keep in mind the towing capacity and the weight of the camper. There are also additional upgrades you might want to consider, such as a weight distributing hitch, sway control, transmission cooler, wiring harness, and brake controller.

There are several small campers that can be pulled by a Jeep Wrangler, including the Rockwood Geo Pro 12SRK, Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up T12RBST, Sunray 109 Sport, and the NuCamp TagXL. These campers have a dry weight of around 1,300 to 2,200 pounds, which is within the towing capacity of the Jeep Wrangler.

In conclusion, the Jeep Wrangler is a capable towing vehicle for small campers and trailers, but it is important to stay within the towing capacity and consider necessary upgrades for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Jeep Wrangler towing capacity

The Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle for those who love to get off the beaten path. Its rugged endurance and off-roading capabilities make it a common choice for those who want to bring more gear than can fit in the Jeep. The Jeep Wrangler's towing capacity depends on the year and model of the vehicle.

The 2022 and 2023 Jeep Wrangler can tow anywhere from 2,000 to 3,500 lbs, depending on the model. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. The 2-door models of the Jeep Wrangler will tow up to 2,000 lbs, while the 4-door models have a maximum tow capacity of 3,500 lbs.

With a Jeep Wrangler, you’ll be limited to campers like smaller travel trailers, pop-ups, teardrops, and maybe the lightest hybrid campers. Some examples of campers that can be towed by a Jeep Wrangler include:

• Rockwood Geo Pro 12SRK
• Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up T12RBST
• Flagstaff Tent 206M
• Sunray 109 Sport Pull Behind Campers
• NuCamp TagXL Pull Behind Campers
• MeerKat
• Little Guy Mini Max
• Aliner Scout Pull Behind Campers
• Aliner Grand Ascape ST

Things to Be Aware of When Towing a Camper with a Jeep Wrangler

There are a few things to keep in mind when towing a camper with a Jeep Wrangler. Firstly, the "Jeep death wobble" is a phenomenon where the vehicle experiences violent shaking. This can be caused by worn components, tire inflation and balance issues, wheel alignment, and modifications such as suspension lifts. Secondly, whenever you tow any type of trailer, you can be subject to trailer sway, which can result in a loss of control of both the trailer and the vehicle. Finally, the Jeep Wrangler has a lower wheelbase, which can make towing more challenging.

Upgrades for Towing with a Jeep Wrangler

To enhance your towing experience with a Jeep Wrangler, you may want to consider the following upgrades:

• Weight Distributing Hitch: This helps to keep the Jeep and camper level while driving and distributes the weight of the camper more evenly.
• Sway Control: This ensures that neither the camper nor the Jeep Wrangler gets too buffeted by the wind while driving.
• Transmission Cooler: This helps to keep the transmission fluids at cooler temperatures, preventing the transmission from overheating.
• Wiring Harness: This connects the lights on the camper to the lights on the Jeep Wrangler.
• Brake Controller: This connects the brakes on the Jeep to the brakes on the camper, allowing them to work simultaneously.

Camper weight considerations

• Dry Weight: This is the weight of the camper when empty, without any supplies or cargo. It serves as a starting point to determine if your Wrangler can handle it.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The GVWR is the camper's maximum safe weight when fully loaded, including dry weight, cargo, water, and other essentials. It is crucial to ensure that the GVWR falls within the Wrangler's towing capacity.
• Payload Capacity: In addition to towing capacity, consider the Wrangler's payload capacity, which includes the weight of passengers and cargo inside the Jeep.
• Tongue Weight: To determine the weight available for the camper tongue weight and additional items, subtract the tongue weight from the Wrangler's maximum payload capacity.
• Liquid Weight: Consider the weight of liquids, such as water, which can add significant weight to your camper. Water weighs eight pounds per gallon, so a full freshwater tank can add a considerable amount to the overall weight.
• Cargo Weight: Account for the weight of all the cargo and supplies you will be carrying in your camper.
• Passenger Weight: Don't forget to include the weight of the passengers who will be travelling in the Wrangler.

When considering a camper for your Jeep Wrangler, it is essential to research the specific model's towing capacity and carefully weigh your camper and cargo to ensure you do not exceed the limits. Staying within the weight limits will ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Camper size considerations

When considering the size of a camper that a Jeep Wrangler can tow, several factors come into play. Firstly, it's important to note that the towing capacity of a Jeep Wrangler varies depending on the model year and configuration. For example, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while lower-rated configurations can tow up to 2,000 pounds. The two-door models of the Wrangler typically have a lower towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, while the four-door models can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Given these towing capacity limits, it's crucial to choose a camper that falls within the appropriate weight range. This means considering the dry weight or unloaded vehicle weight (UVM) of the camper, which is the weight of the trailer without any additional cargo. Even an average Airstream trailer, for instance, has a dry weight of around 2,500 pounds, which is already close to the lower limit of the Wrangler's towing capacity. Therefore, it's important to opt for smaller and more aerodynamic campers to stay within the safe towing range.

When selecting a camper, it's not just the weight that matters, but also the size. Taller campers, for instance, may be more susceptible to wind sway, especially if they are taller than the Jeep Wrangler itself. Longer campers also tend to be heavier, so it's important to consider both dimensions when making a choice.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the weight distribution of the camper can impact the towing experience. A weight-distributing hitch can help keep the Jeep and camper level while driving and improve weight distribution for a smoother ride.

When it comes to specific camper recommendations, there are several options that fall within the towing capacity of a Jeep Wrangler. Here are some examples:

• Rockwood Geo Pro 12SRK: This single-axle trailer has an unloaded vehicle weight of 1,763 pounds, staying well below the towing capacity limit.
• Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up T12RBST: With a dry weight of 2,120 pounds, this pop-up camper is compatible with the Jeep Wrangler's towing capacity.
• Sunray 109 Sport: This small pull-behind camper has a dry weight of 1,320 pounds, making it a suitable option for the Wrangler.
• NuCamp TagXL: This compact teardrop trailer has a dry weight of 1,340 pounds and offers a great layout for maximizing space.
• Little Guy Mini Max: With a dry weight of 2,320 pounds, this teardrop trailer offers modern interior decor and features, including a wet bath.
• Aliner Scout: This hard-body pop-up camper has a dry weight of 1,395 pounds and can sleep up to four people, making it a great upgrade from a tent.

In conclusion, when considering the size of a camper that a Jeep Wrangler can tow, it's important to stay within the towing capacity limits, pay attention to both weight and dimensions, and consider weight distribution for a smoother towing experience. Additionally, there are several camper models on the market that fall within the towing capacity range of a Jeep Wrangler, offering a variety of features and amenities for a comfortable outdoor adventure.

Jeep Wrangler upgrades for towing

The Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle for those who love to get off the beaten path. Its rugged endurance and off-road ability make it a common choice for those who want to bring more stuff than can fit in the Jeep.

The towing capacity of a Jeep Wrangler depends on the model. The 2022 and 2023 Wrangler can tow anywhere from 2,000 to 3,500 lbs. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The 2024 Rubicon models' new full-floating rear axle allows for the upgrade to a 5,000-pound tow rating.

However, the colossal external spare tire on the Wrangler occupies the same space needed to attach a trailer tongue to a hitch ball. This means that actually connecting a trailer can require some improvisation. A drop hitch can be used to lower the hitch ball away from the tire, but too much drop will point the trailer tongue towards the pavement and unbalance the trailer.

• Receiver hitch and trailer wiring plug: These can be added as factory options or as a simple afternoon modification project.
• Hitch ball and mount: Choose a hitch ball and mount with a hitch pin that match your trailer.
• Cooling system upgrade: Some generations of Wrangler have cooling issues, so upgrading the cooling system may be beneficial for towing.
• Brake rotors and pads: Upgrading the brake rotors and pads can improve the braking performance of your Wrangler when towing.
• Safety chains: Always use safety chains when towing. They should cross under the tongue to catch the trailer in case the hitch fails.

When towing with your Jeep Wrangler, it is important to consider the weight of your cargo and distribute it evenly. Approximately 10% of the trailer weight should be on the hitch ball. Improper weight distribution can affect the vehicle's performance at highway speeds and cause uncontrollable left/right movements.

Additionally, practice driving with the trailer attached to get a feel for the extra length and how it reacts when backing up. Always drive with caution and give yourself extra time when towing.

Camper options for a Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is a sturdy vehicle that can be great for off-road adventures. However, it does have its limits when it comes to towing. The average towing capacity of a Jeep Wrangler is 2,000 to 4,000 pounds, depending on the model. This means it can tow pop-up trailers, hybrid trailers, Airstreams, and teardrop trailers.

Casita Travel Trailer

The Casita travel trailer is lightweight, weighing as little as 2,000 pounds, and can sleep a small family. Its fiberglass construction and design make it aerodynamic and fuel-efficient for towing.

Teardrop Trailer

The teardrop trailer is small and basic, perfect for camping trips. It is not as lightweight as the Casita trailer but can still be towed by a Jeep Wrangler. One option is the T@B 400 teardrop trailer by NÜCamp, which has sleeping quarters, storage areas, and a restroom and cooking area, with a total weight of 3,500 pounds.

Starcraft Comet Pop-Up Trailer

The Starcraft Comet pop-up trailer is a good middle option, with a dry weight of 1,840 pounds. It comes with a full-size and queen-size bed, a dinette, and a living area. Its soft canvas walls make it lightweight and waterproof.

Airstream Basecamp

The Airstream Basecamp is a cute, two-wheeled trailer that looks similar to a teardrop trailer but is longer. Its dry weight is 2,600 pounds, and it can hold up to 1,000 pounds of additional weight, so it should not exceed the Jeep Wrangler's maximum towing capacity. It comes with a bathroom, kitchen, and lounge area that can be converted into a bed.

Rockwood Geo Pro 12SRK

The Rockwood Geo Pro 12SRK is a single-axle trailer that is 12 feet 3 inches long. It has an unloaded vehicle weight of 1,763 pounds and a cargo-carrying capacity of 1,135 pounds, for a GVWR of 2,898 pounds. It features an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and sink. Inside, there is a couch that converts into a bed and additional storage. However, there is no bathroom.

Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up T12RBST

The Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up T12RBST is a single-axle trailer that is 19 feet 2 inches long. It has a dry weight of 2,120 pounds and a cargo-carrying capacity of 1,164 pounds, for a GVWR of just under 3,500 pounds. It has an A-frame shape when opened, with a flip-up bed and a dinette that converts into a bed. It includes a sink, stovetop, refrigerator, and storage inside and outside, as well as an outdoor griddle. There is no bathroom in this trailer.

When considering a camper for your Jeep Wrangler, it is important to keep in mind the towing capacity of your specific model and the weight of the camper, including any additional gear you will be carrying. Additionally, you may need to install a tow package, including a trailer hitch, wiring harness, and brake controller, to safely tow a camper with your Jeep Wrangler.

Frequently asked questions