For those of us who are happiest when exploring the great outdoors, a toy hauler can be a wise investment. The trouble is, most of them are intimidatingly large and difficult to haul. That’s why we’ve put together this list of great lightweight toy haulers.
- 2017 Quicksilver Livin’ Lite VRV 6×15
- 2019 Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G16TH
- 2018 Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 7x20HJ
- 2020 Jayco Octane Super Lite 161
- 2018 Forest River Wildwood X-Lite FSX 180RT
- 2019 K-Z Escape E180TH
- 2020 Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 22RR
- 2020 InTech Flyer Explore
Why Buy A Lightweight Toy Hauler?
As you may know, a toy hauler is a camper that includes a cargo bay. This space can be used to haul ATVs, dirt bikes, kayaks, snowmobiles, or any other recreational equipment you can think of. It’s a great perk, and one that allows you to take full advantage of the outdoor experience.
That said, many first-timers (and even some experienced RVers) are put off by the size and weight of most toy haulers. Most of them require heavy-duty towing vehicles, which can represent another sizable investment.
The light toy haulers we’ve listed here, however, all have a dry weight below 5000 pounds. That makes them far more manageable, even if you’ve never hauled a trailer before. Most of them are capable of fitting into tight spaces as well, which increases their versatility.
If you’re looking for a lightweight toy hauler, there’s bound to be one one our list that appeals to you.
2017 Quicksilver Livin’ Lite VRV 6×15
In addition to being lightweight, the 6×15 version of Quicksilver’s Livin’ Lite VRV measures under 20 feet in length. While it offers a more rugged camping experience that some of the competition, it definitely beats tenting.
The cargo area is on the smaller side, so it’s better suited for bicycles and SUPs than 4-wheelers. As for the living space, it’s adequate but nothing fancy: A convertible dinette/sofa with pedestal table; a refrigerator, microwave, and oven with two-burner range; and a tiny water closet with a toilet. The sleeping area is located in a pop-out on the driver’s side of the rig, while a 12-foot awning takes up residence on the other side.
This VRV model allows you to enjoy a traditional camping trip and bring a few of your favorite toys along for the ride. Nature enthusiasts are sure to appreciate what it has to offer, but buyers who like to pamper themselves should probably consider another alternative.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 3118 lbs | 19 ft 2 in | 8 ft 5 in x 5 ft 8.5 in | 38 gals | 13 gals | 4 |
2019 Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G16TH
The Rockwood Geo Pro G16TH from Forest River is another minimalist offering, but it has a few more amenities than the Quicksilver model. While the cargo bay isn’t enormous, this is one of the lightest and most maneuverable units on our list.
The two flip-down sofas can be converted to beds at night, but be aware that each one is only large enough to fit a single person. An entertainment center is located along the passenger side wall, helping to round out the living space. There’s no dedicated sleeping area, so this unit should be considered only if both campers plan on going to bed at the same time.
The kitchen facilities include a refrigerator, microwave, pantry, sink, shelf space, and a stove with a three-burner range. A gas grill can be found outside beneath the 12-foot awning. This unit does include a bathroom with a toilet/shower combination, but be forewarned that the water tanks are on the small side.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 2842 lbs | 18 ft 4 in | 7 ft 4 in x 7 ft 4 in | 37 gals | 12 gals | 2 |
2018 Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 7x20HJ
If you liked the sound of the Quicksilver VRV but are looking for a more well-appointed living space, check out the 2018 7x20HJ model. With a cargo bay that measures over 100 square feet and dedicated outside storage, this unit is equipped to take on all your favorite recreational gear.
Step beneath the 16-foot awning and through the main entrance, where you’ll have easy access to the kitchen and bathroom facilities. The kitchen offers a two-burner range, sink, and refrigerator, but the fridge is positioned awkwardly behind the bathroom wall.
Inside the bathroom, you’ll find a sink, toilet, and stall shower. The freshwater tank holds a generous 50 gallons, which is a nice perk for a unit this size. A fold-out sofa bed and freestanding table take up the majority of the living space, but there’s also a queen-sized bed in the rear.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 4040 lbs | 24 ft 2 in | 10 ft 2 in x 10 ft 2 in | 50 gals | 28 gals | 4 |
2020 Jayco Octane Super Lite 161
The 2020 Jayco Octane Super Lite 161 features a snug interior and a cargo bay measuring 8 by 8 feet. While this isn’t the lightest model on our list, we think it’s one of the best-conceived ones.
In the rear, you’ll find a sofa set that can be converted to a queen-sized bed, as well as a table that’s designed for both indoor and outdoor use. A fridge with an overhead TV mount is situated along the bathroom wall, similar to the configuration in the Quicksilver 7x20HJ. However, it doesn’t seem as awkward here, thanks in part to the openness of the floor plan.
The L-shaped kitchen contains a double sink, microwave, two-burner range, and overhead cabinet space. While the bathroom is small, it offers a tub/shower combination in addition to the toilet. Note that you’ll have to step out to the kitchen to wash your hands.
An 11-foot awning gives the outdoor space a cozy vibe, so you’ll have a place to relax after a long day of playing in the woods. As light toy haulers go, this is an impressive offering, especially when you consider that the trailer measures just over 20 feet long.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 4724 lbs | 20 ft 7 in | 8 x 8 ft | 53.2 gals | 45.4 gals | 4 |
2018 Forest River Wildwood X-Lite FSX 180RT
Families of three or four should appreciate the layout of the Wildwood X-Lite FSX 180RT, which features a dedicated front-facing sleeping area and a convertible sofa in the rear. Although this is a lightweight model with a total length of 21 feet 9 inches, it offers more legroom than most of the competition.
The convertible sofa faces the TV hookup, and there’s a pantry located right beside it, making it easy to refill your snack trays while watching a movie. The galley kitchen includes a refrigerator, sink, microwave, and two-burner range. A toilet and stall shower round out the bathroom facilities. As with the Jayco Octane model, the only sink is in the kitchen.
Outside, you’ll find a 12-foot awning, but no built-in grill or other kitchen facilities. Fortunately, you should be able to find everything you need inside.
As we mentioned, the configuration allows families to spread out at bedtime. Everyone has equal access to the bathroom as well. Although it’s not the most private setup, it’s more than adequate as far as light toy haulers are concerned.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 3054 lbs | 21 ft 9 in | N/A | 38 gals | 30 gals | 4 |
2019 K-Z Escape E180TH
If you’re looking for a lightweight toy hauler with a bunkhouse configuration, put the 2019 K-Z Escape E180TH on your short list. In addition to the cargo bay, which measures 9 by 9 feet, this rig offers a front-facing bunk area and pass-through storage, making it a great fit for families.
The rear entrance is positioned beneath a 13-foot awning and leads directly into the living area, which includes a flip-out sofa. The refrigerator sits next to the seating area, so you can grab a cold one without moving too far from your comfortable perch. There’s also an A/C option for those of you who prefer to camp in warmer weather.
The bathroom offers a toilet and stall shower, but no sink. Fortunately, you can find one just steps away in the kitchen area, which also includes a two-burner stove top. One other point of interest: The freshwater tank holds only 38 gallons, but the 32-gallon black water tank is generous for a unit that sleeps just 4 people.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 3290 lbs | 21 ft 7 in | 9 x 9 ft | 38 gals | 32 gals | 4 |
2020 Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 22RR
Forest River is a leader in the RV industry, which is why we’ve included two models from their lineup on this list. The Cherokee Grey Wolf 22RR is one of their lightest toy haulers, but it’s longer than many of the other units we’ve chosen, giving travelers plenty of room to spread out.
The front-facing bedroom includes a queen bed and ample storage space, as well as direct access to the bathroom. You can also enter the bathroom from the hallway. Inside, you’ll find a toilet, sink, and stall shower. With a 46-gallon capacity, the freshwater tank is adequate but not oversized, so use caution if you like to shower frequently.
The kitchen area is tucked between the rear convertible dinette and the bathroom wall. It includes a three-burner range, a mid-sized refrigerator, microwave, and pantry. There’s also a sink that can be covered up to provide extra counter space when it’s not in use.
This model doesn’t have any outdoor kitchen facilities, save for an optional barbecue hookup. However, there is a TV mount on the outer passenger-side wall—a thoughtful touch. On the whole, we think the Cherokee Grey Wolf 22RR offers a great deal of living space for a unit with a 4-person maximum sleep count.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 4871 lbs | 28 ft 10 in | N/A | 46 gals | 28 gals | 4 |
2020 InTech Flyer Explore
The InTech Flyer Explore is the lightest model on our list, and the one that takes the purest approach. It’s essentially a cargo trailer that can be converted to a sleeping area. However, if you prefer a minimalist experience, then this could be just the ticket.
The cargo bay measures over 550 square feet, which should be large enough to accommodate an ATV or a snowmobile. A sturdy front tongue box offers storage space for the gear that you want to be able to access from outside the trailer. The unit comes standard with a single pop-out, but you can opt for a second pop-out if you need additional sleeping space.
Another optional feature is the slide-out kitchen, which includes a two-burner range and refrigerator in addition to prep space. We would highly recommend this option, as it goes a long way toward boosting the trailer’s versatility. Otherwise, you’ll have plenty of room to store your nonperishable goods, but, your cooking options will be limited.
Also, note that there are no bathroom facilities included with this model. If that’s a major concern, this might not be the right fit for you.
| Dry Weight | Length | Cargo Area | Freshwater Tank | Black Water Tank | Sleeps |
| 2020 lbs | 13 ft 9 in | 8 ft 1 in x 5 ft 9 in | N/A | N/A | 4 |
In Conclusion
A lightweight toy hauler isn’t necessarily an inferior toy hauler. Most of the models we’ve listed offer the same comforts and conveniences you would expect from a larger unit, with none of the hassle that comes from towing a heavy rig. On the other hand, if it’s simplicity you’re after, a model like the InTech Flyer Explore could be your best bet.
Best of luck, and happy camping!
Check out our article on: 7 Forest River Toy Haulers (Reviewed)
