First look at travel trailers today at Camping World

What motor does your Silverado have? If you have a 5.3L OK, if you have the tiny V6, then your not going to be happy long term. You might actually be happier with a short class C or a class B motor home for ease of driving, backing, parking for a single person.

Buy a two axle unit and a used one. It seems most people go through three RVs before they find the one they really like.

Bill

I agree that for your first TT you should look at used. Most new buyers find that during the first year they figure out numerous things they don't like about the TT and usually trade it in on a different model so they take a big financial hit. Buying used you can usually find a reasonably priced trailer, try it for a year and if you decide to sell you don't lose that much of the initial investment.

Since you are by yourself or even if you have a partner you probably don't need a trailer with bunks. Single or double axle and length will depend on what you like for living space. By staying under 5000 lb. as you mention, your 1/2T will be plenty and haul it without problem.

I would suggest you get a weight distribution hitch with sway control and learn how to use it properly.

When buying used, inspect the TT for any signs of water damage, make sure everything works, check the tires for age, sidewall cracking, battery, any damage, age of propane tanks, They will eventually need to be tested and recertified but not too expensive. If unsure what to look for take a friend or TT mechanic who is. Buying something that needs a lot of repairs can be a bad experience for a new camper.

I hope you enjoy your new to you trailer experience

My first trailer was a 17' hybrid (the kind where the tents pop out of the ends) single axle. Second was a 24' double axle. Honestly there's really no difference in towing. Other than the 24 being easier to back up (less responsive, didn't jackknife as quick). The 24 cut the corners a touch more, but nothing to worry about. Either way you need to pay attention entering parking lots and gas stations.

For myself, even if travelling solo I would absolutely positively require a permanent bed, and a couch. Beyond that, I'm flexible. :B

But generally speaking, larger will give you larger fresh and grey tanks too, which is nice especially on the smaller units that are more likely to be taken to remote areas.

You haven't looked at enough RVs to make any decision...I'll start there. Next is do you have a tow vehicle or are you going to buy a tow vehicle? Hopefully, you'll buy or select the trailer first and then match a TV to it. If you have a TV already you are limited to its max towing weight and PAYLOAD. Next you have not revealed the type of camping you want to do...RV parks? Dry camping/boondocking? I believe a bunch of reading should be in your immediate future.

It all depends on what you want. To most folks floor plan and comfort are top priority. Of course what your going to tow with should play into the mix. The weights you mentioned I would bet are terms like "dry" or "shipping", are what you mentioned and are totally useless. Look in the street side front corner for a tag that will give you the trailers GVWR and base your tow vehicle on that number. At least doing that you wont go wrong.
The differwnce between a 18 foot and a 23 foot trailer is nothing towing, not much backing, and a world of difference living. Also quit looking at new, look instead at used.