Thanks to their mobility and self-contained nature, RVs are ideal for creating unforgettable adventures, even far from traditional campgrounds. Luckily there are many lightweight travel trailers specifically designed for off-grid RV excursions. And good news for your wallet—many of them can be towed with an SUV, so no truck purchase is required to tow your new trailer.
Important Features to Look for in Off-Grid RVs
If you want to leave the campground in your rearview mirror and head off the grid, it’s important to purchase an RV that’s designed for rugged terrain and boondocking conditions. Here are some features that will keep you safe and comfortable even while camping far from shore power and bathhouses.
12-Volt and Propane Appliances
When you can’t hook up to shore power, you’ll want your refrigerator, cooktop, oven, and TV to work on 12-volt batteries or propane gas. Avoid residential appliances as they will require a more robust energy draw.
How to solve common RV propane issues: RV troubleshooting
Solar Prewiring or Manufacturer Solar Packages
If there is even a small possibility that you will add an aftermarket solar package, make sure you look for an RV that is prewired for solar. Better yet, find one that is prewired for an inverter as well, which will allow you to use 110-volt power even while boondocking. Many of the RV models featured in this roundup offer roof-mounted solar kits as optional upgrades. We highly recommend choosing the manufacturer packages when available.
Large Fresh Water Tanks
The size of your fresh water tank is an important consideration when camping off the grid. These tanks vary greatly in size from trailer to trailer, so make note of this feature when shopping. You’ll see that within this article’s featured RVs, the fresh water tanks are anywhere from eight gallons to 55 gallons, which is a large variance within the same class of travel trailer.
Large Gray Water and Black Water Tanks
The bigger your gray and black water tanks are, the longer you can use your sink, shower, and toilet without needing to dump them. Note that some travel trailers within this category won’t have any gray or black water tanks, some have combo tanks, and others have separate tanks that are up to 30 gallons each. Pick a model that suits your needs.
Robust Frames and Raised Axles
If you want to take your travel trailer down unpaved roads and over rugged terrain, make sure you look for solid framing and raised axles that provide plenty of ground clearance. Many trailers in this class also offer all-terrain tires as either standard or an optional upgrade.
The ultimate guide to boondocking
Off-Grid Travel Trailers We Love
Does an off-grid trailer fit your lifestyle? These travel trailers are some of the best on the market and will make your next boondocking or off-roading adventure more comfortable.
inTech O-V-R Expedition Off-Grid Travel Trailer
The latest off-roading lineup from inTech makes off-grid adventures comfortable and spacious for the whole family. The O-V-R lineup offers three models, ranging from a toy hauler to the smaller, 5,200-pound Expedition travel trailer. When purchased with inTech’s off-grid package, this rig comes with 400 watts of solar power, a 200-amp hour lithium battery, and a 2,000-watt inverter charger.
The interior features a spacious U-shaped dinette, a full-size kitchen with a farmhouse sink, two twin-sized beds, an optional drop-down bunk bed, and a large wet bath. Plus, there’s plenty of storage space throughout, and the dinette can also be used for sleeping space.
| SPECS: O-V-R EXPEDITION TRAVEL TRAILER | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 5,200 pounds |
| GVWR | 7,500 pounds |
| Overall Length | 22 feet, 4 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 44 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30 gallons |
| Black Tank | 26 gallons |
| Propane | 40 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $58,380 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
Although this rig is equipped to take you to remote destinations, the interior provides all of the comforts that you’d expect from a travel trailer. Plus, with the optional drop-down bunk, you’ll have plenty of room to bring the kids along for your adventures.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Lance Truck Camper
The 650 Truck Camper was designed by Lance for short-bed, half-ton trucks. The standard package offers ducted heat, a marine toilet, and pre-wiring for a solar panel. The three-way refrigerator and selection of 12-volt, USB, and 110-volt outlets will allow you to keep everything powered whether you’re hooked up at a campground or dry camping. If you’re just beginning your hunt for a truck camper, Lance has a helpful and detailed compatibility guide.
| SPECS: 650 Truck Camper | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 2,061 pounds |
| Overall Length | 15 feet, 6 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 22 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 15 gallons |
| Black Tank | 16 gallons |
| Propane | 5 gallons |
| MSRP | $25,016 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
Think about adding the 100-watt solar panel and lithium battery if you plan to boondock, and the 19-inch, 12-volt TV if you still want to enjoy the creature comforts of home.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Airstream Basecamp
The Basecamp trailer is designed to pair well with midsize SUVs that many off-road adventurers already own. Large wheels, side skirts, and wheel flares protect the camper from the gravel and debris on unpaved roads. There are four different floor plans available, ranging from 16 to 20 feet in length, and all versions include an onboard restroom with a toilet and shower. Goodyear tires and 12-volt tank heaters also come standard.
| SPECS: Basecamp 16 | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 2,650 pounds |
| GVWR | 3,500 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 410 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 16 feet, 2 inches |
| Exterior Height | 8 feet, 8.75 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 21 gallons |
| Black and Gray Tank Combo | 24 gallons |
| Propane | Two 20-pound tanks |
| MSRP | Starting at $55,400 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
Buyers can upgrade to a 200-watt solar package. Get extra ground clearance with the Basecamp X-Package, which features a 3-inch lift, Goodyear Wrangler tires, and a raised hitch jack pad.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Jayco Jay Feather Micro
The Jayco Jay Feather Micro lineup features four different floor plans designed to take you off the beaten path, while still providing a high level of comfort. The 166FBS has 16-inch diameter Goodyear tires with reinforced wheel wells and is prepped for roof-mounted solar power and prewired for an inverter. It also contains a 55-gallon fresh water tank. The JayPort external propane connection makes it easy to hook up the included 17-inch grill.
| SPECS: Jay Feather Micro 166FBS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 3,895 pounds |
| GVWR | 4,996 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 420 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 19 feet, 7 inches |
| Exterior Height | 10 feet, 6 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 55 gallons |
| Black Tank | 30.5 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30.5 gallons |
| Propane | 60 pounds |
| MSRP | $36,585 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
One optional solar power package includes a 200-watt solar panel and a 30-amp controller, and another adds the 1,800-watt inverter. Add a Thule roof rack system or bike storage rack if you like to travel with your toys.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Winnebago Micro Minnie FLX
The Winnebago Micro Minnie FLX trailer lineup consists of four different floor plans that range from 22 to 22.5 feet in length. The H172BH is particularly attractive to adventurous couples or small families, offering bunk beds and a large dinette with bed conversion.
| SPECS: Micro Minnie FLX 2100BH | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 4,177 pounds |
| GVWR | 5,500 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 462 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 21 feet, 11 inches |
| Exterior Height | 10 feet, 3 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 31 gallons |
| Black Tank | 25 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 25 gallons |
| Propane | 40 pounds |
| MSRP | $64,421 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
At less than 22 feet long and less than 4,200 pounds in dry weight, the Micro Minnie FLX is easy to tow for most SUVs and Trucks.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Rockwood Geo Pro
The Rockwood Geo Pro offers a wide range of floor plans, from a 15-foot travel trailer to a 20-foot toy hauler. The entire series comes equipped with 200-watt, roof-mounted solar panels and a 1,000-watt inverter. Most models offer a 12-volt TV, Teton All In One Wi-Fi Booster with LTE Prep and Antenna, and Showermiser water conservation system. The G15TB floor plan has rear twin-sized beds that can convert into a king-sized bed depending on what layout you need.
| SPECS: GEO PRO G15TB | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 2,667 pounds |
| GVWR | 3,877 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 357 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 15 feet, 10 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 31 gallons |
| Black Tank | 12 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 12 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $32,441 |
Features and options we love for off-grid adventures:
Buyers can add on Pro Rac mounting bars, a removable ladder, a second 200-watt solar panel, and a tongue-mount bike rack.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
Palomino Pause Travel Trailer 16.4
The Pause is perfect for solo travelers or couples looking to go off the beaten path. Ruggedly constructed with an aluminum frame; composite walls, flooring, and roofing; and independent suspension, this towable is built to handle all of the bumps and turns of an off-road adventure. The cozy, stylish interior comes with a spacious dry bath, a full-sized kitchen with bar seating, and a foldable queen-sized bed that’s perfectly placed under a large dual-pane window for stargazing. An integrated Garmin navigation system comes standard on all models, as does 200 watts of solar power, a 400-amp hour Lithium battery, and a 3,000-watt inverter charger.
| SPECS: 20.3 PAUSE TRAVEL TRAILER | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 5,773 pounds |
| Overall Length | 21 feet, 2 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 54 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30 gallons |
| Black Tank | 30 gallons |
| Propane | 60 gallons (two 30-gallon tanks) |
| MSRP | $99,997 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE FOR OFF-GRID ADVENTURES:
The Pause comes with an offboard air compressor for easy tire inflation and deflation, and the outdoor kitchen comes fully equipped with cooking space, storage, a sink, and a fridge. You can also upgrade your solar package to 1,000 watts.
More information on this off-grid travel trailer can be found here.
A Note on Rig Specs
It’s important to pay close attention to specs when shopping for a travel trailer. Use the VIN (vehicle identification number) to find the towing capacity and payload capacity for your specific tow vehicle.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The maximum loaded weight of your trailer as determined by the manufacturer. You should never exceed this weight rating when your RV is stocked with all of your gear, propane, and fresh water.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)
The weight of your trailer as manufactured with no cargo, propane, or water.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)
This is the difference between your UVW and your GVWR, telling you how much weight you can safely add to your trailer. Pay close attention to the cargo carrying capacity if you intend to travel with a lot of gear.
Tongue Weight
This is the amount of weight pressing down on the hitch ball that is attached to your tow vehicle. It is extremely important to make sure that the tongue weight of a travel trailer does not exceed your tow vehicle’s payload capacity.
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