Camper Size And Gvwr: What You Need To Know

When it comes to choosing the right camper, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is weight. In this case, you're looking for a camper with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6500 lbs. This means that the camper can safely weigh up to 6500 lbs when it's fully loaded with gear and passengers.

To find a camper that fits this criteria, you'll need to pay attention to both the unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) and the GVWR. The UVW is the weight of the camper when it's empty, while the GVWR includes the weight of your gear and guests. It's important to make sure that the UVW plus the weight of your gear doesn't exceed the GVWR, or you could end up with a broken axle.

So, what are some good options for campers with a GVWR of 6500 lbs? Here are a few examples:

- Winnebago Micro Minnie 1708FB: This camper has a UVW of 3360 lbs, so it's lightweight and can be towed by a car or lightweight pickup. It comes with all the essentials, including a full bathroom, kitchenette, and dinette.

- Lance 1685 Travel Trailer: With a UVW of 3980 lbs, this camper offers a bit more space and features than the Micro Minnie. It includes a slide-out U-shaped dinette, faux granite countertops, and extra storage over the bed.

- Airstream Caravel 20FB: The Airstream Caravel is a stylish and compact option with a UVW of 4300 lbs. It can sleep four people comfortably and has a convertible dinette bed.

- Dutchmen Aspen Trail LE 25BH: Despite being over 28 feet long, this camper has a UVW of just 4719 lbs. It comes with bunk beds, a master bedroom, and pass-through storage windows.

Remember to always weigh your camper before setting off on your travels to ensure that you're within the GVWR limit. Safe and happy camping!

Towing a 6500 GVWR camper through mountains

Towing a camper through the mountains can be challenging, especially when dealing with steep grades and tight turns. Here are some tips and considerations for towing a 6500 GVWR camper through the mountains:

• Vehicle Capabilities: It is crucial to understand the towing capacity and limitations of your vehicle. Ensure that your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) are not exceeded when loading the camper and passengers. The GVWR refers to the maximum weight of the vehicle and its load, while the GCWR is the maximum weight of the vehicle and the trailer combined. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or towing guide for specific weight limits.
• Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution is essential for safe towing. Ensure that the weight of the camper and cargo is evenly distributed and does not exceed the maximum tongue weight or hitch weight recommended by the manufacturer. Improper weight distribution can affect handling, stability, and braking performance.
• Towing Equipment: Utilize a weight distribution hitch (WDH) to distribute the tongue weight across the tow vehicle and trailer axles. This can improve handling and reduce sway. However, it is important to note that weight distribution hitches are not recommended for all vehicles, so check your vehicle's manual before use. Additionally, consider using a sway control device to further enhance stability.
• Braking System: Ensure that your trailer is equipped with functional brakes and that your tow vehicle has an integrated brake controller. This will assist in slowing down and stopping, especially during long mountain descents. Keep your speed low and be prepared for sudden stops.
• Engine Performance: When towing a heavy camper through the mountains, engine performance becomes crucial. The engine should have sufficient power and torque to handle steep grades without excessive strain. Consider the horsepower and torque specifications of your vehicle and whether it is adequate for the task.
• Transmission and Tow/Haul Mode: Utilize the tow/haul mode in your vehicle, if available. This mode adjusts the transmission shift points, keeping the vehicle in lower gears for longer and providing better control during acceleration and deceleration. It can also improve braking performance and engine braking.
• Cooling System: Towing a heavy load through the mountains can put a strain on your vehicle's cooling system. Keep an eye on the engine temperature and ensure your cooling system is well-maintained. Avoid towing in extremely hot weather, as it can increase the risk of overheating.
• Tire Pressure: Check and adjust your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations for towing. Proper tire pressure can improve handling, stability, and fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires may experience increased flex and heat buildup, leading to potential tire failure.
• Passenger and Cargo Weight: When calculating weights, consider the weight of passengers and cargo in addition to the camper itself. The weight of passengers and gear can add up quickly, impacting the overall GVWR and GCWR. Distribute cargo evenly and avoid exceeding weight limits.
• Mountain Driving Techniques: When driving through the mountains, use appropriate gear ratios for climbing and descending grades. Downshift to lower gears when climbing steep inclines to provide more torque and reduce the risk of overheating. Use engine braking or lower gears to control speed during descents, reducing the strain on your brakes.
• Route Planning: Plan your route carefully when towing through the mountains. Research the roads and passes in advance, taking note of steep grades, tight turns, and elevation changes. Choose routes that are suitable for your vehicle and trailer combination. Consider alternative routes that may be less steep or have better road conditions.
• Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and avoid driving through the mountains in severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or high winds. These conditions can make towing more challenging and increase the risk of accidents.
• Practice and Familiarization: If you are new to towing, practice in a safe and controlled environment before embarking on your mountain journey. Get familiar with the handling and performance of your vehicle-trailer combination. This will help you develop the skills and techniques needed for mountain driving.
• Maintenance and Inspections: Ensure your vehicle and trailer are well-maintained and in good working order. Perform regular inspections of tires, brakes, lights, suspension, and hitch connections. Address any issues promptly to minimize the risk of breakdowns or accidents during your trip.

Remember to always adhere to local laws and regulations regarding towing capacities and vehicle modifications. Stay within the recommended weight limits and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturers of your vehicle and trailer. Safe mountain driving requires careful planning, attention to weight distribution, and a thorough understanding of your vehicle's capabilities.

Camper trailer weight and towing capacity

When it comes to towing a camper trailer, there are several weight and capacity factors to consider. Firstly, it's crucial to understand the abbreviations and weight designations used in vehicle specifications. GVWR, or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, is the maximum loaded weight a vehicle can safely operate, including the weight of the empty vehicle and any cargo. GCWR or GCVWR, refers to the combined weight of the tow vehicle and camper trailer, and should not be exceeded.

When it comes to your tow vehicle, it's important to know its curb weight, which is the weight of the vehicle when empty, excluding necessary fluids. Additionally, you should be aware of the towing capacity, which is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow. This can be found on the vehicle's VIN sticker, in the user manual, or by calculating it using the gross combined vehicle weight and curb weight.

For your camper trailer, you need to consider both the dry weight, or UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight), and the GVWR. The dry weight is the weight of the empty camper, while the GVWR includes cargo, water, and personal belongings. It's crucial to ensure that the GVWR of your camper trailer fits within the towing capacity of your vehicle.

Other weight factors to consider include tongue weight, which is the weight of the camper at the hitch, and payload capacity, which is the weight your vehicle can carry in its bed and cab. Additionally, the weight of passengers and cargo in both the tow vehicle and camper trailer will affect your maximum towing capacity.

When planning to tow a camper trailer, it's essential to stay within the designated weight limits to ensure safety and avoid problems such as trailer sway and inefficient towing.

Now, let's apply these concepts to your specific scenario. You mentioned a GVWR of 6500 lbs for your camper trailer. To tow this safely, you'll need a tow vehicle with a towing capacity that accommodates this weight. Considering the weight designations we discussed, you'll want to look for a vehicle with a towing capacity of at least 6500 lbs, and ideally higher to account for cargo and passengers.

Some options suggested by other users include:

• Ford Transit 150 XLT 3.7L with a weight distribution hitch (WDH)
• Ram 1500 with 2.7 engine
• Toyota Tundra
• Ford F250 with 5.9L gas engine
• Ford F150 3.5 Ecoboost
• Ford Silverado 1500

These vehicles offer a range of capabilities and features, and you can further narrow down your choice by considering your budget, fuel efficiency preferences, and specific towing needs. Remember to always consult the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for both your tow vehicle and camper trailer to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Camper trailer size and weight

When it comes to camper trailer size and weight, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, the weight of a camper trailer will depend on its length, with longer trailers generally weighing more than shorter ones. Secondly, the weight of a camper trailer is not just the weight of the trailer itself, but also includes the weight of any cargo, fluids, and passengers. This is known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and is the maximum weight a trailer is rated to carry.

The GVWR of a camper trailer can range from around 2,000 pounds for a small teardrop trailer to over 15,000 pounds for a large 5th wheel camper trailer. The average weight of a camper trailer is around 5,200 pounds dry weight, which means the weight of the trailer without any gear or water. You can expect to add about 1,500 pounds of gear and water to that number to get a "real-world" example.

When shopping for a camper trailer, it's important to consider the towing capacity of your vehicle. The towing capacity is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow and can usually be found on a sticker on the inside of the driver's door. It's important to note that the towing capacity may depend on what options and packages were purchased with the vehicle when it was new.

When calculating the weight of your camper trailer, don't forget to include the weight of water and gear. Water weighs about 8 pounds per gallon, and an average trailer has a 48-gallon fresh water tank, which can add nearly 400 pounds to the weight of your trailer. Other items like a generator, bedding, food, and kitchen supplies can also add several hundred pounds to the overall weight.

It's also important to consider the tongue weight or hitch weight, which is the amount of weight put on the trailer ball of your towing vehicle. This number is usually quite low, about 10% of the total weight of the trailer. For example, a 25-foot trailer may have a dry hitch weight of under 500 pounds.

When loading your camper trailer, it's crucial to distribute the weight evenly to avoid an uneven distribution that can be dangerous and impact the towing hitch and trailer. Regularly weighing your trailer can help you stay within the rating limits and ensure a safe and smooth towing experience.

• Get rid of any unnecessary items, such as extra tools, equipment, unused clothing, or kitchen supplies.
• Weigh the trailer separately with and without the towing vehicle to get a clear picture of the weight distribution.
• Use a weight distribution system to ensure the weight is properly distributed.
• Only pack what you absolutely need and try to stay below the maximum weight capacity.
• Make sure tires are properly inflated to maintain correct tire pressure.
• Use lightweight materials, such as aluminum, for any repairs or modifications to the trailer.
• Remove any old or unused items, such as ladders, awnings, or kayaks, to reduce weight.
• Replace heavy doors with lightweight curtains to save space and weight.
• Upgrade old, heavy items with new, lightweight alternatives to reduce overall weight.

Camper trailer features and weight

The weight of a camper trailer depends on a variety of factors, including its length, construction materials, and included features. The average weight of a camper trailer is between 1,000 and 8,800 lbs, but can vary widely depending on these factors.

Length

The length of a camper trailer is one of the most significant factors affecting its weight. Generally, longer trailers weigh more than shorter ones. For example, a 15-18 foot trailer will typically weigh less than a 30-foot trailer. However, this relationship is not always linear, as newer models and construction techniques can result in lighter trailers.

Construction Materials

The materials used in the construction of a camper trailer can also affect its weight. For instance, trailers built with fibreglass and aluminium tend to be lighter than those constructed with corrugated siding. Additionally, using lightweight materials like aluminium for repairs or modifications can help reduce the overall weight of the trailer.

Features and Amenities

The features and amenities included in a camper trailer can significantly impact its weight. For example, water tanks can add over 400 pounds to the weight of the trailer, while generators can add several hundred pounds, depending on their size. Other features such as slide-outs, air conditioning, refrigerators, and sinks can also increase the weight. Therefore, trailers with more amenities and features will generally weigh more than those with basic sleeping and kitchen facilities.

Weight Terminology

When considering the weight of a camper trailer, it is essential to understand the various weight terminologies used by manufacturers. Here are some key terms:

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) or Dry Weight: The weight of the trailer when it is parked at the dealer's shop, with no water, propane, or batteries.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): The maximum additional weight that can be carried in the trailer, including full propane tanks, water tanks, and other equipment.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum weight the trailer is designed to carry when fully loaded, according to the manufacturer.
• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The combined weight of each trailer axle and the maximum load each axle can support.
• Tongue or Hitch Weight: The amount of weight transferred to the tow vehicle through the trailer's tongue.
• Net Carrying Capacity (NCC): The weight of personal belongings included in the trailer.
• Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating (SCWR): The designated number of sleeping positions multiplied by 70 kg (154 lbs).
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum allowable weight of both the loaded tow vehicle and the loaded trailer combined.

Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is critical for the safety and stability of a camper trailer. An uneven weight distribution can lead to suspension or frame damage and increase the risk of swaying and tipping. It is essential to keep 60% of the weight ahead of the centre of gravity of the trailer and ensure that the weight is evenly distributed from side to side and front to back. Weight distribution systems can be used to correct uneven weight distribution and improve towing performance.

Weighing Your Trailer

To ensure safe towing, it is important to know the exact weight of your camper trailer. Commercial public scales, weight position weighing, RV dealership services, agricultural weigh stations, and private trailer company services are some options for weighing your trailer. Weighing typically costs between $60 and $90.

Towing Considerations

When selecting a camper trailer, it is crucial to consider the towing capacity of your vehicle. Exceeding the weight limit of your tow vehicle can strain the engine, accelerate brake wear, and damage the tires and chassis. Additionally, an overloaded trailer can put stress on the brakes and make it difficult to control, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it is important to choose a trailer that is within the towing capacity of your vehicle and to distribute the weight properly to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Camper trailer models under 6000 lbs

When it comes to travel trailers, a gross weight rating of 6,000 pounds or less is typically the upper limit for what a mid-size SUV can safely tow at highway speeds. This makes lightweight travel trailers a popular choice for families who don't want to invest in a pickup truck to tow their trailers.

Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS

• Dry weight: 3,014 lbs
• Payload capacity: 841 lbs
• Hitch weight: 355 lbs
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• Ideal for a couple or a small family

Winnebago – Hike H172BH

• Dry weight: 3,400 lbs
• Payload capacity: 600 lbs
• Hitch weight: 620 lbs
• Sleeps up to 6 people
• Great for a single parent with teenage children

Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS

• Dry weight: 3,990 lbs
• Payload capacity: 1,005 lbs
• Hitch weight: 480 lbs
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• Best for a couple with a child

Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS

• Dry weight: 4,670 lbs
• Payload capacity: 1,830 lbs
• Hitch weight: 485 lbs
• Sleeps up to 8 people
• Good choice for a large family

K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH

• Dry weight: 3,260 lbs
• Payload capacity: 1,740 lbs
• Hitch weight: 360 lbs
• Sleeps up to 5 people
• Great for a small family

Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC

• Dry weight: 4,243 lbs
• Payload capacity: 1,557 lbs
• Hitch weight: 435 lbs
• Sleeps up to 8 people
• Suitable for larger families

Winnebago Micro Minnie 1708FB

• Length: 19' 4.5"
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,360 lbs
• Accommodations: patio speakers, full-size bed, kitchenette, cross-air windows
• Can potentially be towed by a car or lightweight pickup

Lance 1685 Travel Trailer

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,980 lbs
• Accommodations: slide-out U-shaped dinette, faux granite countertops, extra storage over the bed, swivel-mount TV
• Compact model ideal for single RVers or couples

Airstream Caravel 20FB

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 4,300 lbs
• Accommodations: L-shaped kitchenette, sleeps four, stylish interior, convertible dinette bed
• Can sleep four but may feel cramped during the day

Dutchmen Aspen Trail LE 25BH

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 4,719 lbs
• Accommodations: bunk beds, pass-through storage, master bedroom, stylish interior decor
• Can sleep up to six or eight people

Forest River Flagstaff Micro Lite 22TBS

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 4,795 lbs
• Accommodations: slide-out dinette, exterior storage, two twin beds with king bed insert, pass-through storage
• Sleeps two separately or as a couple in a king bed

Keystone Passport SL 240BHWE

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 5,069 lbs
• Accommodations: slide-out dinette, bunk beds, outside kitchenette, rear cargo door, 19' built-in awning, pass-through storage
• Sleeps up to eight people

Jayco Jay Feather X23E

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 5,105 lbs
• Accommodations: three slide-out beds, slide-out dinette, tri-fold sofa, swivel-mount TV
• Sleeps three separately or as a couple in a king bed

Starcraft Super Lite 241BH

• Unloaded vehicle weight: 5,705 lbs
• Accommodations: slide-out fridge and dinette, laundry chute, pass-through storage, double bunk beds, master bedroom, outside kitchen, power awning
• Sleeps up to eight people

Frequently asked questions