If you own a Subaru Crosstrek and love the idea of hitting the road for camping adventures, this list is for you. The Crosstrek, known for its all-wheel drive and rugged versatility, has a towing capacity of about 1,500 pounds, which limits your camper options but still leaves room for some excellent lightweight trailers. Here are 10 must-see campers that pair perfectly with your Crosstrek, offering comfort, convenience, and easy towing for your next trip.
1. Forest River R-Pod RP-171
The Forest River R-Pod RP-171 is a compact teardrop trailer weighing around 2,300 pounds, but its lightweight design and aerodynamic shape make it easier to tow with a Crosstrek when properly equipped. It features a cozy dinette that converts into a bed, a wet bath, and a small kitchenette with a two-burner stove and refrigerator. Its fiberglass body and sleek profile reduce wind resistance, helping maintain fuel efficiency on the road.
2. Scamp 13’ Standard Model
The Scamp 13’ trailer is a fiberglass camper weighing approximately 1,500 pounds, making it an ideal match for the Crosstrek’s towing limits. It offers a simple but functional interior with a convertible dinette, a small galley, and optional bathroom facilities. Thanks to its durable construction and compact footprint, it’s easy to maneuver and park, perfect for weekend getaways.
3. NuCamp TAB 320 S
The NuCamp TAB 320 S is a lightweight teardrop camper weighing about 2,700 pounds, slightly heavier but still towable if you carefully manage cargo weight. It features a spacious interior with a queen-sized bed, a wet bath, and a well-equipped kitchen. The TAB’s aerodynamic design and modern amenities make it a popular choice for those wanting comfort without sacrificing the Crosstrek’s performance.
4. Happier Camper HC1
The Happier Camper HC1 is a modular, retro-styled camper with a base weight of roughly 1,100 pounds, well within the Crosstrek’s towing capacity. Its innovative, customizable interior allows for various configurations, including a dinette, bed, and kitchenette. The HC1’s lightweight fiberglass shell and durable frame make it easy to tow and perfect for off-grid adventures.
5. TAXA Outdoors Cricket
The TAXA Outdoors Cricket weighs about 1,400 pounds and is designed specifically for small SUVs like the Crosstrek. It offers a compact floor plan with a convertible dinette, a small kitchen, and clever storage solutions. Its rugged suspension and durable build make it suitable for rougher terrain, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore beyond paved roads.
6. Aliner Scout Lite
The Aliner Scout Lite is a pop-up camper with a dry weight around 1,300 pounds, making it highly compatible with the Crosstrek’s towing limits. It features a quick setup design, a dinette that converts into a bed, and a compact kitchen area. The Scout Lite’s aerodynamic shape and lightweight frame help maintain fuel efficiency and ease of towing.
7. Jayco Hummingbird 10RK
The Jayco Hummingbird 10RK has a dry weight of about 1,500 pounds, sitting at the upper edge of the Crosstrek’s towing capacity. It offers a rear kitchen layout, a convertible dinette, and a wet bath option in a lightweight, aerodynamic package. Its smart use of space and quality construction make it a solid choice for longer trips.
8. Escape Trailer 5.0
The Escape Trailer 5.0 weighs approximately 1,500 pounds and features a sleek fiberglass body with a modern interior. It includes a dinette that converts to a bed, a kitchenette with a two-burner stove, and ample storage. The trailer’s lightweight design and aerodynamic profile make it an excellent match for the Crosstrek’s towing capabilities.
9. Little Guy Mini Max
The Little Guy Mini Max is a teardrop camper weighing around 1,600 pounds, slightly above the Crosstrek’s recommended capacity but still towable with caution and light packing. It boasts a queen-sized bed, a full galley in the rear, and a wet bath option. Its durable construction and compact size make it a popular choice for small SUV owners.
10. TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth
The TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth weighs about 1,700 pounds, close to the Crosstrek’s limit but manageable for experienced tow vehicle owners. It features a pop-up roof for added headroom, a convertible dinette, and a compact kitchenette. Its rugged design and off-road capabilities appeal to adventurous campers looking to explore remote locations.
How to Choose
When selecting a camper to tow with your Subaru Crosstrek, the most critical factor is weight. The Crosstrek’s towing capacity maxes out around 1,500 pounds, so always check the dry weight and consider the added weight of gear, water, and propane. Aerodynamics also matter; streamlined campers reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Consider your camping style—if you prefer short trips, a simpler teardrop or pop-up might suffice, while longer trips may require a camper with bathroom facilities and more storage. Finally, think about the hitch and towing setup on your Crosstrek, ensuring it’s rated and installed correctly for safe towing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Subaru Crosstrek tow any camper?
Not all campers are suitable; the Crosstrek’s towing capacity is about 1,500 pounds, so only lightweight campers should be considered.
Do I need special equipment to tow a camper with a Crosstrek?
Yes, you’ll need a proper hitch receiver rated for your camper’s weight, and it’s recommended to install trailer brakes if the camper exceeds 1,000 pounds.
What is the difference between dry weight and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)?
Dry weight is the camper’s weight without cargo, fluids, or passengers, while GVWR includes the maximum loaded weight safe for towing.
Can the Crosstrek handle off-road towing?
While the Crosstrek has AWD, towing off-road requires a lightweight camper with rugged suspension; models like TAXA Outdoors’ offerings are better suited.
Is it better to get a teardrop camper or a pop-up for a Crosstrek?
Both have pros and cons; teardrops are aerodynamic and solid, while pop-ups are lighter and offer more interior space when set up.
How do I know if my Crosstrek can tow a specific camper?
Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for towing capacity, compare it to the camper’s GVWR, and factor in additional cargo weight for safety.
Final Thoughts
The Subaru Crosstrek is a surprisingly capable tow vehicle for those who prefer lightweight campers designed for compact SUVs. By choosing a camper that respects the Crosstrek’s towing limits and matches your camping needs, you can enjoy comfortable, convenient trips without sacrificing your vehicle’s performance or safety. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a teardrop or the versatility of a pop-up, these ten campers offer excellent options to explore the outdoors with confidence.
Related
- Who Makes McDonald’s BBQ Sauce? Inside the Supplier Story
- Who Invented Barbecue? Origins and Key Figures Explained
- White Spots on Your Jade Plant: Causes and Solutions Explained