Although traveling with a camper is a popular pastime for families, it also provides an excellent way to bring couples closer together. You can find great smaller compact campers that will suit couples perfectly in lieu of a larger trailer.
Here’s our list of 5 compact travel trailers for couples.
- 2018 Lance 1575
- 2018 Palomino Puma 32RKTS
- 2017 Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 1909S
- 2019 Winnebago Minnie Drop 170S
- 2020 Oliver Legacy Elite
What Makes A Travel Trailer Great For Couples?
As with any purchase, you’ll need a solid list of criteria before determining which product is right for you. Here are some of the hallmarks of the ideal travel trailer for couples.
Small Size
When it’s just the two of you, there’s no need to haul around a gigantic trailer. There are plenty of models available that measure less than 25 feet in length, and some under 20 feet.
You also don’t need to worry about additional bunk space. Just one decent-sized bed will be enough to accommodate two people.
Light Weight
This is a corollary to the size factor, but it deserves its own category because the two aren’t necessarily linked together. Look for a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of 4000 or less.
Trailers with this weight rating are capable of being towed by a light-duty truck or SUV, so you won’t need to invest in a larger vehicle just to haul your new home-away-from-home.
Affordability
Cost is a major factor in any purchasing decision. For a major investment like this one, it’s crucial to find that perfect balance between budget and quality. You don’t want to buy a cheap travel trailer that you’ll have to replace within a few years, but it’s also important not to stray too far from what you can reasonably afford.
Bathroom Facilities
While larger families might be willing to sacrifice a separate toilet and shower area (what’s known as a “dry bath”) for more living space, we think it’s important for couples to have well-appointed bathroom facilities.
When you don’t have young ones to worry about, it’s easier to go off the beaten path. With a decent bathroom, you can boondock for days at a time–no need to scout for a nearby RV park with comfort stations.
Personal Appeal
Look for amenities that you’re most likely to take advantage of. If you enjoy cooking out, try to find a unit that has an outdoor grill feature and decent-sized awning.
Conversely, if you don’t like to cook much at all, look for a trailer with minimal kitchen facilities. Couples who have a king-sized bed at home would be most comfortable in a trailer with a larger sleeping area.
Remember: This travel trailer is meant to be your second home. Make sure you invest in a travel trailer that suits your lifestyle and interests.
Best 5 Travel Trailers For Couples
2018 Lance 1575
With a total length of 20 feet and 6 inches, and a GVWR of just 3,500 pounds, the Lance 1575 is one of the most lightweight and maneuverable trailers on our list. Despite its diminutive footprint, its interior height stands at a roomy 78 inches.
Since this model can sleep up to four people, it’s a good choice for couples who might want to invite friends or grandchildren along from time to time.
The Lance 1575 offers a decently sized refrigerator at 5 cubic feet, along with a 3-burner range for cooking. There’s a tub and shower combo in the bathroom, which is another huge plus.
The bed is queen-sized, with a comfortable pillow top. We’re especially big fans of the tinted windows, which make it easier to sleep in and afford couples with an extra dose of privacy.
The one drawback to the Lance 1575 is its price, which is relatively high considering its size. If you can afford it, however, this is an excellent upscale option.
Specifications:
Length: 20 feet, 5 inches
Height: 9 feet 10 inches
Width: 7 feet-3/8 inches
Dry Weight: 2775 pounds
Sleeps: 4 people
Fresh Water: 26 gallons
Gray Water: 26 gallons
Black Water: 26 gallons
Awning Size: 12 feet
2018 Palomino Puma 32RKTS
Palomino has been in business for more than 50 years, and the Puma RKTS is a shining example of the company’s commitment to quality. With a sleeping capacity of 2 to 4, it’s great for couples but allows you the option of inviting guests from time to time.
The roomy queen-sized bed and jackknife sofa give the interior a plush, comfy vibe that make it difficult to get out and explore.
The dry bath offers plenty of storage for towels and toiletries, and the 30″ by 48″ shower is both spacious and reliable. Numerous upgrades are available, including a larger stainless steel fridge and a 15,000-BTU air conditioner.
At 35 feet and 7 inches, this is a much larger travel trailer than some of the other units we’ve listed, but we think its perks make it well worth the extra length and weight. Consider the Puma 32RKTS if you already own a heavy-duty truck and are comfortable towing an oversized load.
Specifications:
Length: 35 feet, 7 inches
Height: 11 feet, 1 inch
Width: 8 feet
Dry Weight: 7839 pounds
Sleeps: 6 people
Fresh Water: 51 gallons
Gray Water: 37 gallons
Black Water: 35 gallons
Awning Size: 18 feet
2017 Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 1909S
Forest River’s Rockwood Mini Lite 1909S is, in our opinion, the epitome of a no-frills travel trailer. With a GVWR of under 5,000 pounds and a length of just 20 feet 4 inches, it can be easily towed by a regular SUV or light-duty truck. If you don’t have much experience with towing a travel trailer, this could be the perfect fit.
The rear bed is large enough for a close couple, but doesn’t take up too much room. The kitchen has a convenient layout and is faced by the sofa, which gives the interior a nice streamlined appearance. We’re especially impressed by the stall shower, which is generously sized for a unit this small.
Forest River offers many add-ons for its travel trailers, and the 1909S is no exception. Some options include a power awning, an outdoor grill, a mounted 24-inch television, and a 44-inch dinette for entertaining.
If you’re starting with a low budget but think you might like to upgrade at some point in the future, this could be the rig for you.
Specifications:
Length: 20 feet
Height: 10 feet, 2 inches
Width: 8 feet
Dry Weight: 3316 pounds
Sleeps: 4 people
Fresh Water: 43 gallons
Gray Water: 30 gallons
Black Water: 30 gallons
Awning Size: 11 feet
2019 Winnebago Minnie Drop 170S
The Minnie Drop 170S is one of Winnebago’s least expensive offerings, but don’t let the low price tag scare you off. This is a well-appointed unit with a spacious interior, despite having a GVWR of just 3,800 pounds.
Like the Rockwood Mini Lite 1909S, it measures 20 feet 4 inches in length, making it a great fit for first-timers who are nervous about towing huge loads.
Unlike some earlier versions of this model, the 2019 Minnie Drop 170S comes equipped with a dry bath, earning it extra points in our opinion. It’s capable of sleeping up to 3 people according to the specifications, but we wouldn’t recommend it unless the third person happens to be either very young or extremely short.
Specifications:
Length: 20 feet, 3 inches
Height: 9 feet, 2 inches
Width: 8 feet
Dry Weight: 2800 pounds
Sleeps: 4 people
Fresh Water: 31 gallons
Gray Water: 25 gallons
Black Water: 25 gallons
Awning Size: 10 feet
2020 Oliver Legacy Elite
Oliver Travel Trailers Legacy Elite model measures just 18 feet and 5 inches long, making it the shortest trailer listed here. The interior height measures 6 feet 1 inch, so it might be problematic for taller individuals who want to stand to their full height when inside the trailer.
We found the interior to be cozy rather than cramped, with a handsome wrap-around dinette, attractive kitchen appliances, and a full bathroom.
A few important caveats: The Legacy Elite is a bit heavier than some of our other listings, with a GVWR of 5,000 pounds. It’s still towable with a full-sized RV, but it’s something to be aware of.
Second, there’s no separate sleeping area–the dinette must be converted into a bed for sleeping. While this might be economical in terms of space, we’re not huge fans of having to reconfigure the layout every night and again every morning.
Finally, this model is priced on the high end of the spectrum, especially for a small trailer. Consider the Legacy Elite only if cost is not a primary concern.
Specifications:
Length: 18 feet, 5 inches
Height: 9 feet
Width: 6 feet, 6 inches
Dry Weight: 3700 pounds
Sleeps: 3 people
Fresh Water: 32 gallons
Gray Water: 32 gallons
Black Water: 18.5 gallons
Awning Size: 10 feet
In Conclusion
What’s the best travel trailer for couples? Our personal favorite would have to be the Lance 1575, based on its convenient size and generously appointed layout.
Our only quibble is with the price tag, but considering the years of enjoyment that the camper is bound to provide, we think it’s well worth the investment.
Best of luck, and happy camping!
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