Coleman Pop-Up Camper: How Heavy Is It?

Pop-up campers are a popular choice for those seeking a lightweight and compact RV option. They are smaller than other campers and can be folded, making them easier to store and transport. The weight of a pop-up camper can vary depending on factors such as size, construction type, and amenities offered. Basic tent trailer-style pop-up campers typically weigh between 800 and 2,150 lbs, while hard-sided A-frame campers weigh between 1,560 and 2,430 lbs. Off-grid, hybrid, or extreme sport-style pop-up campers are on the heavier side, ranging from 2,100 to 3,740 lbs. When considering a pop-up camper, it is essential to understand the different weight measurements, such as unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), to ensure safe towing and operation.

Coleman pop-up camper weight range

Pop-up campers are a popular choice for campers due to their compact size and lightweight nature. The weight of a Coleman pop-up camper can vary depending on several factors, including the model, size, materials used, features, and cargo. Let's take a closer look at the weight range of Coleman pop-up campers and explore the different factors that can influence their weight.

Weight Range of Coleman Pop-Up Campers

The weight of a Coleman pop-up camper can vary significantly depending on the specific model and its features. Basic tent trailer-style pop-up campers typically weigh between 800 to 2,150 lbs, while hard-sided A-frame type campers are slightly heavier, ranging from 1,560 to 2,430 lbs. Off-grid, hybrid, or extreme sport-styled pop-up campers fall on the higher end of the spectrum, ranging from 2,100 to 3,740 lbs.

The Evolution E3 series by Coleman is a larger pop-up camper with a generous amount of space. With a box length of 12 feet and a travelling length of almost 22 feet, the Evolution E3 has a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 4,400 lbs. This weight includes the weight of the camper, passengers, cargo, and fluids.

On the other hand, smaller pop-up campers, such as the SylvanSport GO and the smaller Coachmen Clipper, typically weigh around 840 lbs and 600 lbs, respectively. These compact options are perfect for couples or solo campers who want to travel light and don't require many amenities.

Factors Affecting Pop-Up Camper Weight

When considering the weight of a Coleman pop-up camper, it's important to understand the various factors that can influence it. Here are some key factors that can impact the weight:

• Model and Size: Larger models tend to weigh more than smaller ones. The size of the camper, including its length and height, will have a direct impact on its weight.
• Materials and Construction: The type of materials used in the camper's construction can affect its weight. For example, lightweight materials like aluminium or fibreglass are often preferred as they make the camper easier to tow.
• Features and Amenities: Campers with more features and amenities, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and additional storage space, will naturally weigh more than basic models.
• Optional Accessories: Adding accessories like air conditioning units, awnings, or slide-out sections can increase the overall weight of the camper.
• Cargo and Supplies: The weight of your camping gear, personal belongings, and supplies will also contribute to the overall weight of the camper. This includes items like water, propane tanks, and other fluids.

Weight Measurements and Management

To effectively manage the weight of your Coleman pop-up camper, it's essential to understand the different weight measurements and their significance:

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): This is the weight of the camper when it leaves the factory, excluding optional accessories, cargo, and fluids. It represents the base weight of the camper and is also known as the "dry weight."
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The GVWR is the maximum weight that the pop-up camper is rated to carry safely, including all equipment, accessories, cargo, and passengers. It is crucial to never exceed this weight limit to ensure safe towing and operation.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): The CCC, or payload capacity, is the difference between the GVWR and the UVW. It represents the additional weight allowance for cargo, supplies, and personal belongings that can be safely carried in the camper.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience, it's recommended to weigh your fully loaded pop-up camper and compare it to the GVWR. Distributing weight evenly, optimising storage space, and maintaining proper tire pressure are also important considerations when managing the weight of your Coleman pop-up camper.

Factors that influence camper weight

The weight of a pop-up camper can vary depending on several factors, and it's important to consider these when determining if your vehicle can safely tow it. Here are the key factors that influence the weight of a pop-up camper:

Size and Usefulness:

The size of the camper and its intended use will have a significant impact on its weight. Larger campers with more amenities and features will generally weigh more than smaller, more basic models. This is because they offer more space, comfort, and convenience, which typically means more weight.

Construction and Materials:

The construction and materials used in building the camper will also affect its weight. For example, a hard-sided camper will weigh more than a tent-style camper due to the additional materials used. The type of flooring, walls, and roof can also vary the weight, with materials like wood or aluminium having different weight contributions.

Amenities and Features:

The weight of a camper is directly related to the amenities and features it offers. Air conditioning, awnings, water heaters, refrigerators, and other conveniences add weight to the camper. It's important to consider which features are essential and which you can do without, as each addition will impact the overall weight.

Towing Capacity:

Your vehicle's towing capacity is a crucial factor when considering a pop-up camper. You must ensure that your vehicle can safely handle the weight of the camper, both when fully loaded and unloaded. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for its specific towing capacity and weight restrictions.

Suspension and Ground Clearance:

The suspension system and ground clearance of the camper can influence its weight. Upgraded suspension and higher ground clearance, often desired for off-road adventures, will add weight to the camper. Leaf spring suspension, independent suspension, and upgraded brakes are all factors that can increase the overall weight.

Accessories and Cargo:

Additional accessories, such as spare tires, toolboxes, and cargo racks, will contribute to the overall weight of the camper. It's important to consider what items you plan to bring along and how they will impact the weight. Every extra item, from bicycles to generators, will add to the total weight you need to tow.

In conclusion, when considering a pop-up camper, it's crucial to understand the factors that influence its weight. By carefully evaluating the construction, features, and intended use, you can make an informed decision about which camper is right for your needs and vehicle. Remember, weight plays a critical role in safety and legality when towing a camper, so always stay within your vehicle's towing capacity.

Weight measurements explained

Weight is the measure of how heavy an object is. Weight is measured in standard customary units, while mass is measured in standard metric units. Mass refers to the amount of material an object contains.

The weight of an object is associated with the gravitational force exerted on it by other objects in its environment. Weight is also influenced by the object's location, as gravity varies in different places. For example, an object on the Moon would weigh 16.5% of its weight on Earth.

The standard metric units for measuring weight are the gram and the kilogram. The gram is a metric unit of mass or weight, abbreviated as 'g'. One thousand grams equal one kilogram. The kilogram is the SI unit of mass or weight, abbreviated as 'kg'.

The US customary units for measuring weight are ounces, pounds, and tons. An ounce is an imperial measure of weight, abbreviated as 'oz'. There are 16 ounces in a pound. A pound is an imperial unit of mass or weight, abbreviated as 'lb', and is defined as 0.454 kg. The 'lb' is an abbreviation for the Latin word 'libra', the seventh sign of the zodiac symbolized by scales. A ton is a standard unit for measuring mass or weight, and there are 2,000 pounds in a ton.

In US customary units, the pound can also be a unit of force, and there are related units in distinct subsystems, such as the poundal and the slug. The poundal is the force necessary to accelerate a one-pound mass at 1 ft/s^2, and is about 1/32.2 of a pound-force. The slug is the amount of mass that accelerates at 1 ft/s^2 when a force of one pound-force is exerted on it, and is about 32.2 pounds in mass.

The kilogram-force is a non-SI unit of force, defined as the force exerted by a one-kilogram mass in standard Earth gravity, equal to 9.80665 newtons. The dyne is the cgs unit of force, while the gram remains a part of the SI system as a unit of mass.

In commercial and everyday use, the term 'weight' often means 'mass', and the verb 'to weigh' means 'to determine the mass of' or 'to have a mass of'. In this sense, the proper SI unit is the kilogram.

The weight of a Coleman pop-up camper can vary depending on the model and its features. Hard-sided pop-ups can range from 1,180 to 2,700 lbs, while tent-style pop-ups can range from 1,300 to 3,700 lbs. When considering the weight of a pop-up camper, it's important to remember that amenities equal weight, and you should not max out your towing capacity to allow for extra cargo.

How to manage camper weight

Managing the weight of your pop-up camper is essential for a safe and enjoyable camping experience. By following these steps, you can ensure that your camper weight is properly distributed, within safe limits, and optimised for better performance.

Know the Weight Ratings

Firstly, it is important to understand the weight ratings associated with your camper. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight that your camper can safely carry, including passengers, fuel, water, and cargo. This rating is set by the manufacturer and should never be exceeded. The Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) or "dry weight" is the weight of the camper as it leaves the factory, without any additional cargo or passengers. The Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) or "payload capacity" is the difference between the GVWR and the UVW, and represents the weight allowance for additional cargo and passengers.

Weigh Your Camper

Before embarking on your camping trip, weigh your fully loaded camper to determine its actual weight. Compare this weight to the GVWR to ensure you are within the safe weight limit. You can use a truck scale at truck stops, agricultural centres, or recycling facilities, or weigh your camper at home using specialised scales.

Distribute Weight Evenly

Proper weight distribution is crucial for maintaining stability and safety while travelling. Avoid overloading one side or the rear of the camper, as this can affect towing and handling. Place heavier items towards the centre and low to the ground, and ensure cargo is properly secured to prevent shifting during transit.

Optimise Storage and Organisation

Use storage solutions and packing techniques to optimise space and reduce clutter. Vertical storage solutions, such as shelves or hanging storage, can help you make the most of your space. Invest in space-saving solutions designed for RVs and campers, such as collapsible containers and stackable storage bins. Pack strategically by distributing weight evenly and placing heavier items lower and towards the centre of the camper.

Check Your Vehicle's Towing Capacity

Ensure that your tow vehicle is capable of safely towing the loaded weight of your camper, including the tongue weight. Always err on the side of caution and do not max out your vehicle's towing capacity. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or use the VIN # to check the tow rating.

Regular Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance on your camper to ensure it remains in good condition and functions efficiently. Check tire pressure, suspension, brake system, engine, electrical system, and propane system regularly. This will help manage weight and promote safety and longevity for your camper.

Camper weight and vehicle towing capacity

When considering a pop-up camper, it is important to understand the weight dynamics and how they relate to your vehicle's towing capacity. The weight of a pop-up camper can vary depending on its size, amenities, and style. For instance, a hard-sided pop-up camper can weigh between 1,180 and 2,700 lbs, while a tent-style pop-up can range from 1,300 to 3,700 lbs. These weights are crucial to know as they directly impact your vehicle's towing capacity and overall performance.

Understanding Towing Capacity

Towing capacity is the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can safely pull. It is essential to note that this capacity is not just about the weight of the camper but also includes the weight of the passengers, cargo, fluids, and other equipment in both the tow vehicle and the camper. This is where terms like Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) come into play.

Vehicle Weights

The GVWR is the maximum total weight of a vehicle, including passengers, fuel, cargo, and tongue weight, for it to operate safely. It is crucial not to exceed the GVWR, as it can lead to unsafe driving conditions, damage to your vehicle, and even legal consequences. The GCWR, on the other hand, is the maximum weight your tow vehicle can handle when fully loaded with a trailer and all cargo. This number includes the GVWR of your vehicle and the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the camper.

Camper Weights

When it comes to campers, the term "Dry Weight" or "Unloaded Vehicle Weight" (UVW) is commonly used. This refers to the weight of the camper when it's empty, without any cargo, water, or other equipment. The GVWR of a camper, on the other hand, includes the weight of the camper itself and any cargo, such as water and personal belongings. It is important to distinguish between the dry weight and GVWR when considering a camper within your towing capacity.

Matching Camper and Vehicle Weights

To ensure safe towing, it is crucial to match the camper's weight with the vehicle's towing capacity. The general rule of thumb is to not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This leaves a 20% buffer for passengers, cargo, and other equipment. Additionally, it is important to consider the tongue weight, which is the weight that sits on the hitch, as it can affect your vehicle's tongue weight capacity.

Other Considerations

When planning to tow a pop-up camper, it is essential to consider the weight of the amenities and equipment you will be carrying. For example, a full 50-gallon fresh water tank can add 415 pounds to your total weight. It is also important to remember that your vehicle's towing capacity can be affected by factors such as cargo weight, gear, passengers, and vehicle modifications. Therefore, it is always recommended to stay below 10% of the maximum towing capacity to account for any miscalculations or shifting loads.

Frequently asked questions