How Much Does A Pop Up Camper Weigh

When considering purchasing a pop-up camper, one of the most critical factors you need to consider is its weight. Understanding the weight of your camper is essential for a variety of reasons, ranging from towing capabilities to safety, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. This knowledge is crucial whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned camper who is simply upgrading to a new model.

The weight of a camper impacts your vehicle’s ability to tow it safely, determines how much fuel you’ll use, and affects how easy or difficult it will be to maneuver and store. It’s not just about the camper itself, but about ensuring your vehicle is up to the task. If your vehicle’s towing capacity doesn’t align with the camper’s weight, this could result in an unsafe driving situation or damage to both the camper and your vehicle.

Furthermore, the weight of your pop-up camper also influences financial aspects, such as fuel costs, parking fees, and storage costs when the camper isn’t in use. Pop-up campers, known for their lightweight and compact design compared to other RVs, still come in a wide range of weights depending on the features and type of camper you’re interested in.

Whether you’re planning short weekend trips or extended off-the-grid vacations, understanding the camper’s weight will play a key role in optimizing your experience.

What Is A Pop-Up Camper?

A pop-up camper, also known as a tent trailer or folding camper, is a collapsible recreational vehicle designed to offer a balance between the simplicity of tent camping and the comforts of a traditional travel trailer. These campers are designed for easy storage and portability, making them a great choice for people who want an affordable way to experience camping with the added convenience of a hard roof and partial walls for protection from the elements.

Key Features of Pop-Up Campers

Collapsible Design: The key feature of a pop-up camper is its ability to fold down into a smaller, more compact size for easy towing and storage. Once set up, it offers a spacious living area for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing.
Canvas Walls: Many pop-up campers use canvas or vinyl walls, which allows them to be lightweight and portable. This feature also helps them expand to create additional space once the camper is fully set up.
Towing-Friendly: Compared to larger RVs and motorhomes, pop-up campers are generally much lighter, which means they can be towed by a variety of vehicles, from small sedans to SUVs and trucks, depending on the camper’s weight.

Why It’s Popular

Pop-up campers are popular for several reasons:

Affordability: They are much more affordable than larger RVs or motorhomes. For those on a budget, pop-up campers provide a perfect balance of cost and comfort.
Compactness: The collapsible design makes them easier to store than larger travel trailers, especially for people with limited space or smaller parking areas.
Versatility: Pop-up campers allow campers to enjoy a more comfortable camping experience, offering basic amenities like a bed and kitchen, while maintaining the portability of traditional tent camping.

Types of Pop-Up Campers

Pop-up campers come in different styles, and each type varies in weight. Below are some common types of pop-up campers and their features:

1. Basic Tent Trailer Style

These campers are the simplest and most basic type of pop-up camper. They are made with a frame, a canvas or vinyl tent structure, and a hard roof. These campers typically feature basic amenities, including a sleeping area, a small kitchen, and minimal storage.

Weight: These campers are lightweight, usually weighing between 600 to 1,200 lbs (272 to 544 kg).
Best For: Individuals or couples who want an inexpensive and lightweight option for occasional camping trips.

2. Hard-Sided Pop-Ups

These campers have solid walls and roofs, offering more durability and better insulation than traditional tent-style campers. They tend to be heavier due to their robust construction, but they provide greater security and comfort, especially in harsh weather conditions.

Weight: These campers typically weigh between 1,500 to 2,500 lbs (680 to 1,134 kg).
Best For: Campers who want more protection from the elements and enhanced durability, especially during winter or adverse weather.

3. A-Frame Pop-Ups

A-frame campers are known for their triangular shape, making them compact and aerodynamic. These campers are lightweight and easy to set up, and they’re usually a good choice for those who need a smaller camper with all the basic amenities.

Weight: These campers typically weigh between 1,000 to 2,000 lbs (453 to 907 kg).
Best For: Solo travelers or couples looking for a compact, easy-to-tow option for quick weekend trips.

4. High-Wall Pop-Ups

High-wall campers are a more spacious type of pop-up camper. They feature taller walls, which provide more interior space and the ability to add extra features such as larger beds, a full kitchen, and even a bathroom. These campers tend to be the heaviest due to the added amenities.

Weight: High-wall pop-up campers generally weigh between 2,000 to 3,700 lbs (907 to 1,678 kg).
Best For: Families or campers who want a more comfortable, spacious experience with additional amenities like showers or bigger kitchens.

How Much Does A Pop-Up Camper Weigh?

Pop-up campers come in a range of weights depending on their size, construction, and included features. Below is a breakdown of typical weight ranges for various types of pop-up campers:

Lightweight Pop-Up Campers: 600 to 1,200 lbs (272 to 544 kg)

These campers are ideal for people with smaller vehicles or those who prioritize portability and ease of towing. They typically have basic features and are compact in size.

Example: The SylvanSport GO weighs about 840 lbs (381 kg), making it perfect for smaller vehicles and off-road adventures.

Mid-Range Pop-Up Campers: 1,200 to 2,500 lbs (544 to 1,134 kg)

Mid-range pop-up campers tend to have more features, such as better kitchens, storage areas, and additional sleeping space. These campers require vehicles with a higher towing capacity, such as larger SUVs or small trucks.

Example: The Forest River Flagstaff 12RK weighs around 1,164 lbs (528 kg), and offers a lightweight yet functional design with amenities like a kitchen.

Heavy-Duty Pop-Up Campers: 2,500 to 3,700 lbs (1,134 to 1,678 kg)

These campers come with more advanced features such as full kitchens, bathrooms, and off-grid capabilities. They are typically larger and more robust, requiring heavier-duty vehicles for towing.

Example: The Opus OP2 weighs around 2,777 lbs (1,260 kg), and it is designed for off-grid camping with larger living spaces and robust construction.

Comparison Table: Pop-Up Camper Weights

Model	Type	UVW (lbs)	GVWR (lbs)	Length (ft)	Sleeps	Special Features
SylvanSport GO	Lightweight	840	1,500	12	2	Off-road, compact design
Forest River Flagstaff 12RK	Mid-Range	1,164	2,200	11.4	2	Kitchen, lightweight design
Opus OP2	Heavy-Duty	2,777	3,970	18.4	4	Off-grid, spacious, high walls
Aliner Classic	Hard-Sided	1,590	2,500	15	2	Solid walls, easy setup
Coachmen Clipper Classic	Mid-Range	2,702	3,223	23.5	6	Full amenities, family-friendly

Basics of Pop-Up Camper Weight

Understanding pop-up camper weight requires familiarizing yourself with a few key terms:

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight): The weight of the camper when it is empty, with no additional gear, water, or cargo inside.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): The maximum weight that the camper can carry, including its structure, gear, water, and personal items.
Payload Capacity: This is the difference between the GVWR and the UVW. It tells you how much weight you can safely load into your camper.

When looking at campers, it’s important to focus on the GVWR to ensure your vehicle can safely handle the camper’s total weight. Always check this to avoid overloading your vehicle and creating an unsafe towing situation.

Factors That Influence Pop-Up Camper Weight

Several factors influence how much a pop-up camper weighs, including:

Size: Larger campers with more space naturally weigh more due to additional sleeping areas and slide-outs.
Materials: Lightweight materials like aluminum and fabric help reduce weight, while heavier materials like steel and fiberglass can add bulk.
Features: A camper with a kitchen, bathroom, air conditioning, or extra storage will weigh more than a basic model.
Frame Type: A-frame campers tend to weigh less because of their compact design, while traditional models with pull-out sections and more complex frames can weigh more.
Axles: Dual axles provide better weight distribution, especially for heavier campers, but may add a few pounds compared to single-axle designs.

Why Pop-Up Camper Weight Matters

Understanding the weight of your pop-up camper is crucial for several reasons:

Towing Capacity: Always ensure that your vehicle can tow the camper safely. If the camper exceeds your vehicle’s towing capacity, it can lead to accidents or mechanical failures.
Fuel Efficiency: Heavier campers require more power to tow, which means your vehicle will consume more fuel. Lighter campers help you save on fuel costs during long trips.
Maneuverability: Lighter campers are easier to tow and park. This makes them better suited for tight campsites or maneuvering through narrow roads.
Storage and Transport: Heavier campers require larger storage spaces and can cost more in terms of transportation and storage fees when not in use.

How Much Does A Pop-Up Camper Cost?

Pop-up camper prices vary greatly depending on the weight, size, and features offered. Here is a breakdown of the average costs:

Entry-Level Models: These campers generally range from $3,000 to $6,000 (about €2,500 to €5,000). They are smaller, lighter, and have minimal features, making them a good choice for those on a budget.
Mid-Range Models: These typically cost between $6,000 and $12,000 (approximately €5,000 to €10,000) and come with more features such as full kitchens, more storage, and better insulation.
High-End Models: The most feature-packed pop-up campers, priced between $12,000 and $25,000 (roughly €10,000 to €20,000) or more, offer luxury features like full bathrooms, air conditioning, off-grid capabilities, and more space for larger families.

How Much Does a Pop-Up Camper Bed Weigh?

Pop-up camper beds generally weigh between 100 to 300 lbs (45 to 136 kg) depending on the size and materials used. Larger beds, such as queen or king-sized setups, will weigh more than standard double beds. The weight of the beds contributes to the camper’s total weight, so it’s something to consider when calculating your camper’s overall towing capacity.

How Much Does a Pop-Up Camper Vehicle Weigh?

The weight of the vehicle used to tow the pop-up camper is an important consideration. You need to ensure that your vehicle has a towing capacity that exceeds the combined weight of the camper and any cargo you plan to bring.

Sedans: Typically between 2,000 to 3,500 lbs (907 to 1,588 kg).
SUVs: Generally between 3,500 to 6,000 lbs (1,588 to 2,722 kg).
Pickup Trucks: These vehicles weigh between 4,000 to 7,000 lbs (1,814 to 3,175 kg), making them ideal for towing heavier campers.

How Much Does A Pop Up Camper Tire Weigh?

The weight of a pop-up camper tire can vary depending on the size, brand, and type of tire. On average, a typical pop-up camper tire weighs between 30 to 50 pounds (13.6 to 22.7 kg). Smaller tires, typically used for lighter campers or smaller models, can weigh around 30 pounds (13.6 kg), while larger tires, meant for heavier campers, may weigh closer to 50 pounds (22.7 kg).

These weights are for the tire alone, without factoring in the weight of the wheel or any other components. The weight of the tire is an essential consideration when replacing or upgrading camper tires to ensure compatibility with the camper’s specifications.

Pop-up campers usually require special tires designed for towing, so it’s important to select the right size and type to avoid issues while on the road. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for tire specifications, as over- or under-inflating tires can lead to safety concerns. Regularly maintaining and checking the tire’s condition can help extend its lifespan and ensure a safe camping experience.

How Much Does A Pop Up Camper Tire Cost?

The cost of a pop-up camper tire can vary significantly depending on factors like size, brand, and the specific needs of your camper. Generally, pop-up camper tires typically range in price from $50 to $150 USD (approximately €45 to €135 EUR) per tire.

Smaller, standard tires for lighter campers or smaller models tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, around $50 to $80 USD (approximately €45 to €70 EUR). On the other hand, higher-quality or larger tires designed for heavier campers or for more rugged use can cost between $100 and $150 USD (about €90 to €135 EUR). These premium options often come from well-known brands like Goodyear or Carlisle, and are designed for better durability and performance.

It’s important to factor in not just the tire cost, but also installation fees if you’re getting them professionally mounted. If you’re looking to save money, some RV supply stores and online retailers may offer discounts or bundle deals for purchasing a full set of tires.

Before purchasing, always ensure the tires are compatible with your specific pop-up camper model to guarantee safety and reliability on the road. Regular maintenance and timely replacements can help extend the lifespan of your camper’s tires.

How Much Does A Coleman Pop Up Camper Weigh

The weight of a Coleman pop-up camper varies depending on the model and size. On average, a Coleman pop-up camper weighs between 700 to 3,800 pounds (approximately 317 to 1,724 kg).

Smaller models, like the Coleman Taos, typically have a dry weight around 995 pounds (451 kg). Mid-sized models, such as the Coleman Americana Santa Fe, can weigh around 1,800 pounds (816 kg), while larger models like the Coleman Fleetwood Utah may weigh as much as 2,700 pounds (1,225 kg). For the largest units, such as the Coleman Fleetwood Sun Ridge, the weight can approach 2,000 pounds (907 kg).

It’s important to note that these weights are the dry weights, meaning the camper’s weight without any gear, water, or other supplies inside. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which accounts for the weight of the camper plus all loaded contents, will be higher. For example, a mid-sized Coleman camper’s GVWR could be around 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).

When purchasing or towing a Coleman pop-up camper, it’s essential to consider both the dry weight and the GVWR to ensure the towing vehicle can handle the load safely.

Conclusion

Knowing how much a pop-up camper weighs is an essential part of choosing the right one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option for ease of towing or a more feature-rich model for a comfortable camping experience, understanding the weight of the camper and ensuring it aligns with your vehicle’s towing capacity will make for a safer, more enjoyable trip.

Fun Facts About Pop-Up Camper Weight

Pop-up campers can weigh as little as 600 lbs (272 kg) for small, lightweight models.
The largest pop-up campers can exceed 3,700 lbs (1,678 kg) when fully equipped with advanced features.
Pop-up campers are typically much lighter than full-size RVs, making them easier to tow with smaller vehicles.
Lighter campers like those weighing 600 to 1,200 lbs (272 to 544 kg) are perfect for sedans, while heavier models require trucks or larger SUVs.

By understanding your camper’s weight and choosing one that suits both your needs and your vehicle’s capabilities, you ensure a safer and more enjoyable camping experience.