Planning family camping trips with a Subaru Forester means finding the perfect small camper that fits the vehicle’s towing capacity and space constraints while offering comfort and convenience. This list covers top small campers suited for families who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing mobility or ease of use. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a frequent road-tripper, these compact campers pair well with the Forester’s capabilities and family-friendly features.
1. Forest River R-Pod RP-171
The Forest River R-Pod RP-171 is a lightweight, compact travel trailer weighing just under 3,000 pounds, making it easy for the Forester to tow. It sleeps up to four people with a convertible dinette and a cozy queen bed, plus it features a well-equipped kitchenette and a wet bath, ideal for families wanting essential comforts in a small footprint. Its aerodynamic shape enhances fuel efficiency, a bonus for longer trips.
2. Jayco Hummingbird 17FD
Weighing around 3,000 pounds, the Jayco Hummingbird 17FD offers a smart layout with sleeping for four, including a dinette that converts into a bed and a dedicated queen bed. Its fiberglass exterior is durable and lightweight, and the camper includes a full kitchen and wet bath, making it a practical choice for family trips. The Hummingbird’s compact size fits well with the Forester’s towing limits while maximizing interior space.
3. nuCamp TAB 320 S
The nuCamp TAB 320 S is a teardrop-style camper with a unique pop-up roof that adds headroom and sleeping space, accommodating up to four family members comfortably. It weighs roughly 3,200 pounds, which is near the upper limit for the Forester but still manageable with careful loading. The camper features an indoor wet bath, a full kitchen, and large panoramic windows that enhance the camping experience with natural light.
4. Lance 1475
The Lance 1475 is a compact, lightweight camper weighing about 3,200 pounds, designed for small families or couples with kids. It sleeps up to four with a convertible dinette and a rear bed, and it features a full bathroom with a shower, a kitchen with a three-burner stove, and ample storage. Its aerodynamic design and solid build quality make it a reliable and comfortable choice for Forester owners seeking a balance of space and towability.
5. Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108DS
At just over 4,200 pounds, the Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108DS is heavier than some other options but remains towable with the Subaru Forester if payload is carefully managed and driving conditions allow. It offers sleeping for up to five with a queen bed and convertible dinette, a full kitchen, and a wet bath with a separate shower. The Micro Minnie’s well-thought-out interior and quality construction make it a strong contender for families wanting more amenities in a small package.
6. TAXA Outdoors Cricket
The TAXA Cricket is a rugged, off-road capable camper weighing around 2,900 pounds, perfect for families who want to explore less-traveled paths with their Forester. It sleeps four with a convertible dinette and a queen bed, plus it includes a wet bath and a full kitchen setup. Its unique design incorporates durable materials and a compact footprint, making it easy to tow and maneuver while offering solid off-grid capabilities.
7. Airstream Basecamp 16
The Airstream Basecamp 16 is a premium small camper weighing approximately 3,500 pounds, suitable for the Forester with careful loading and driving. It sleeps up to three people comfortably with a convertible dinette and a rear wet bath, and it boasts a minimalist but highly functional kitchen. The Basecamp’s iconic aluminum shell is lightweight and aerodynamic, providing excellent fuel efficiency and durability for family adventures.
8. Scamp 16 Deluxe
The Scamp 16 Deluxe is a fiberglass travel trailer weighing about 2,300 pounds, making it one of the lightest campers suitable for the Forester. It sleeps up to four with a dinette and a convertible bed, featuring a simple kitchen and an optional porta-potty or wet bath. Its minimalistic design focuses on ease of towing and setup, ideal for families who prefer a no-frills camping experience with reliable quality.
9. Casita Spirit Deluxe 17
The Casita Spirit Deluxe 17 weighs roughly 2,900 pounds and offers a well-built fiberglass shell with a classic rounded design. It sleeps four with a dinette and a rear bed, and includes a wet bath and a compact kitchen with a propane stove. Casita trailers are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, making this model a practical choice for families wanting a lightweight, long-lasting camper with decent amenities.
10. Oliver Legacy Elite II
The Oliver Legacy Elite II is a higher-end fiberglass camper weighing about 3,500 pounds, which can be towed by the Forester with caution regarding payload and terrain. It sleeps up to four with a spacious interior featuring a convertible dinette and a queen bed, a full wet bath, and a well-equipped kitchen. Its insulated walls and solid build make it suitable for year-round camping, appealing to families who want comfort and durability in a compact camper.
How to Choose
When selecting a small camper to tow with a Subaru Forester, the first consideration is the Forester’s towing capacity, which generally maxes out around 3,500 pounds for recent models. Weight isn’t the only factor; tongue weight, payload, and distribution also affect safe towing. Families should prioritize campers with efficient layouts that maximize sleeping space without excessive bulk. Features like a wet bath, a functional kitchen, and storage options matter for comfort. Aerodynamics influence fuel economy, so streamlined designs help. Also, consider the ease of setup, off-road capability if you plan to camp in rugged areas, and climate suitability—insulation matters if camping in colder seasons. Finally, your budget and desired amenities will guide whether you opt for a minimalist trailer or a more luxurious model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Subaru Forester tow any camper?
Not all campers are suitable; the Forester’s towing capacity limits you to lightweight trailers generally under 3,500 pounds. Always check the specific model year’s tow ratings and the camper’s dry weight.
What’s the difference between a wet bath and a dry bath?
A wet bath combines the shower and toilet in one waterproof space, saving room. A dry bath separates these, offering more comfort but usually requires more space.
Is a teardrop camper practical for families?
Teardrops are often small and best for couples, but models with expandable roofs or slide-outs can accommodate small families, though space is limited.
How important is camper weight distribution?
Very important. Proper weight distribution ensures safer towing, better handling, and reduces wear on the Forester’s suspension and brakes.
Do small campers have heating and cooling?
Many do include electric or propane heating and air conditioning options, but effectiveness varies by model and insulation quality.
Can I camp off-grid with these small campers?
Yes, especially models designed for rugged use like the TAXA Cricket or those with solar and battery packages. However, water and waste capacity may limit duration off-grid.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right small camper for family trips with a Subaru Forester requires balancing weight, comfort, and features. Lightweight trailers like the Forest River R-Pod and Scamp 16 Deluxe offer easy towing and basic amenities, while premium options like the Oliver Legacy Elite II provide more luxury at the cost of heavier weight. Understanding your family’s needs and your Forester’s capabilities ensures a safe, enjoyable camping experience. With the right camper, your Forester becomes a gateway to memorable outdoor adventures tailored for the whole family.
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