Forum Discussion

Valpo_Camper's avatar
Valpo_Camper
Explorer
Jun 20, 2026

Looking to get a travel trailer

First off, camping is no stranger to us.  Started with a tent 26 years ago, moved to a pop-up for a few years then moved to a class C back in 2006.  Been 20 years in the class C and loving it and wish we could continue with the class C but mother nature decided to drop a tree branch on it and damage the roof.  Roof rebuild and replacement has been quoted at $12,100 and we are waiting on insurance to tell us repairable or totaled.  We are expecting for it to be totaled out.

So now the questions come in.  We are looking to make the transition over to a travel trailer but unwilling to replace our towing vehicle so that means a smaller trailer probably 18 feet or shorter.

Looking for some suggestions on what to look for.  Been browsing on rvtrader and camping world and both platforms do a terrible job on listing fry weight and GVWR.

Our towing vehicle will be a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the V6.  Officially the tow rating is 3,500 lbs but the same drivetrain in the Gladiator is 7,000 lbs.  The Wrangler is derated from the factory.  I am comfortable to push closer to a 4,000 GVWR trailer but not over that.  I will install a brake controller and get a weight distro hitch for it as well.

Some of our criteria.
Would love to have a murphy bed to free up floor space.  
Sleeping for 2, many I have seen have a set of bunks in them but that cuts in to storage.  Camping is always just us 2 and on rare occasion the grand goblins.  I can put them in a tent if they go camping with us.
On board bathroom preferably with a sink in the lav area.
Slide would be nice but not a deal breaker
Storage (the amount of "stuff" you accumulate with a class C is astounding)
Under 4,000 GVWR, top end of 3,000 dry weight will work
Preferably used and under $20K

3 Replies

  • Valpo_Camper's avatar
    Valpo_Camper
    Explorer
    Jun 20, 2026

    I understand the concern but the Wrangler is under rated and can handle a bit more.

    Wrangler GVWR is about 5,400 lbs
    Wrangler curb weight is about 4,000 lbs (this includes fuel and fluids) for an 18 4 door sport S.
    Leaves 1,400 lbs for people and cargo.

    2 adults about 400 lbs
    trailer tongue weight would be 400 lbs or so 
    leaves 600 lbs for luggage when towing

    Jeep Wrangler GCWR is 11,100.  A fully loaded maxed out Wrangler with a 4,000 lbs trailer is still below the Wrangler GCWR.

    I am aiming for a max dry weight on a trailer of 3,000 lbs.  Add all my essentials in and I might hit 3800 (with water) for a week long trip.  Weekend trips I will be right around the 3500 mark.  I can roll with no water or just a few gallons if we have to stop in BFE and use the restroom and save weight.  

    • Grit_dog's avatar
      Grit_dog
      Trailblazer
      Jun 21, 2026

      Good morning.  
      You’re right that the Wrangler is fairly stout for its size and it’s not a horribly short wheelbase assuming it’s a 4 door.  
      The chassis will be 95% up to the task although I’d stiffen up the rear suspension.  Should handle a teardrop camper with your specs. 
      The trans will be solid and a good performer.  
      The biggest issue imo is power.  Despite its 285 hp rating, it’s pretty anemic.  And an absolute turd at elevation or on grades. Better be good with using your 4 ways in the right lane on hills. 
      Based on your posts, your towing experience seems somewhere between hypothetical and basic.  
      I would strongly suggest finding a similar size and weight trailer from somewhere. Buddy, rent a camper for a day, get a U-Haul double axle and fill it with rocks or junk, whatever.  Take that thing to the biggest hill you get get to and get back from and decide for yourself if the Wrangler is sufficient. 
      Id do what you’re planning no problem, 1 time, if that was my best option. 
      There is zero % chance I’d make a plan around using it as a dedicated tow rig. And a negative 100% chance if the towing was also going to be at altitude. 
      Always sucks to have to spend money to be comfortable but there’s not much chance you’ll love or even like towing a trailer that size regularly with it. 


  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Nomad III
    Jun 20, 2026

    I would not recommend exceeding tow vehicle’s stated capacities in any category. What is the Jeep’s remaining payload after your stuff and passenger(s) are loaded? 

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