With the ever-growing movement toward deeper backcountry adventures, the market for truly rugged camping trailers is stronger than ever. There are plenty of trailers that have been somewhat adapted for off-grid use. And, there are some that are designed specifically for rugged-duty in places and paths that don’t come close to resembling civilization or roads.

We’ve scoured the planet to bring you a collection of some of the toughest among rugged off-road and off-grid camping trailers. Each has its own character and design, but all feature equipment (often standard) that pushes them from the “adapted” category to a higher realm of serious terrain and severe climate management.

In addition to key ingredients such as upgraded off-road suspension systems, extra-sturdy frames, and bodies built from high-strength modern composite materials and metal (often aluminum) skeletons, these rugged trailers offer modern creature comforts. Comfortable bedding, roomy dining space, fully featured kitchens (some inside and out), and sophisticated electronic systems and climate control apparatus make them easy to live in.

Now, let’s dive right into the best off-road capable camper trailers out there.

9 Best Off-Road-Capable Camper Trailers

Arkto Campers G12: $49,350+

The Arkto Campers G12 is a rugged camping trailer built for easy towing and off-grid adventure; (photo/Arkto Camper)

• Base weight: 3,500 lbs.
• Hitch weight: 397 lbs.
• GVWR: 4,600 lbs.
• Overall length (w/spare tire): 19 ft., 4 in.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 2 in.
• Exterior height (roof closed): 7 ft., 10 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 8 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• LPG capacity: 20- or 30-lb. tank
• Freshwater tank: 37 gals.
• Base MSRP: $49,350 

The 2024 Arkto G12 camping trailer is a perfect example of the kind of rugged rig that can provide all of the equipment and conveniences necessary for extended backcountry exploration. Based on a sturdy off-road-capable galvanized steel chassis that includes a Timbren axle-less heavy-duty suspension, room for 33-inch-tall tires, protective underbelly pan, electric brakes, and tri-axis off-road hitch coupler, the Arkto G12 can easily handle the dirt road less taken.

A dinette in the Arkto G12 offers a seating space and can convert to additional sleeping room; (photo/Arkto Campers)

Composite body construction is topped with a pop-up roof to give the Arkto G12 a low profile for easy travel and full-height headroom once you’ve arrived. The Arkto G12 camping trailer features a large slide-out kitchen with a 12,400-BTU dual-burner gas stove and stainless-steel sink with a hot- and cold-water faucet. A slide-out 75L dual-zone fridge/freezer, large (12 cubic feet) pantry, and fold-down table/food prep deck are also part of the Arkto G12 kitchen gear.

With the top popped up, the Arkto G12 offers standing room and can sleep four persons on its residential-size queen bed, large bench, and single seat/bench connection that creates additional sleeping surfaces. Powder-coated aluminum cabinetry totals 25 cubic feet of interior storage space.

Additional interior features include LED lighting, a 10-speed roof fan with rain cover and remote control, and a portable toilet that can be accessed from the inside or outside of the Arkto G12 camping trailer.

The Arkto G12 full-featured outdoor kitchen makes campsite meal prep convenient; (photo/Arkto)

The extensive roster of standard equipment for the Arkto G12 includes a 270-degree awning, outdoor shower with enclosure, Truma Combi furnace/hot water heater, 37-gallon freshwater tank, and a full-size spare tire and carrier.

Dual 100A batteries, a battery management system with touchscreen control panel and Bluetooth connectivity, and a 15A shore power plug are also standard. Options for the Arkto G12 run the gamut from battery and inverter upgrades to solar power systems and an electric toilet.

The newest rugged off-road camping trailer from Bruder is the hard-sided pop-top EXP-7 GT; (photo/Bruder)

• Base weight: 5,291 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,716 lbs.
• Overall length: 22 ft., 11.5 in.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 3.4 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 5.6 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 6
• Freshwater tank: 52.8 gals.
• Gray water tank: 19.8 gals.
• Base MSRP: $160,250

The newest model in the Bruder lineup of camping trailers meant for rugged duty is the EXP-7. Borrowing the best ideas from the Bruder EXP-6 and EXP-8 travel trailers, the Bruder XP-7 can be ordered in two different coach designs, the EXP-7 PT (pop top) and the EXP-7 GT (hard top). Aside from some minor design and size distinctions, the two Bruder EXP-7 models are basically the same.

Bruder’s EXP-7 GT pop-top is outfitted with folding couches that can create extra sleeping space; (photo/Bruder)

The new Bruder EXP-7 is designed with a solid roof and offers a higher level of insulation that helps control temperatures inside during extreme weather. The hard top EXP-7 GT also offers more storage space than the pop top EXP-7 PT. Both can handle any terrain with Bruder’s patented heavy-duty air suspension system.

The suspension setup includes incorporates eight mono-tube remote-reservoir shock absorbers designed to offer safety and performance when being towed on the highway or off-road. Bruder boasts that its suspension system has nearly three times more usable wheel travel than other dual-axle off-road trailers.

Both EXP-7 models offer the critical components needed for a comfortable and convenient living space. A large couch, fold-up seat, lounge, and master bed can sleep up to six people. Charging outlets and wireless connectivity can be found aside the master bed. The interior bathroom is easily accessed and features a toilet, wash basin, shower, and storage space.

The two-way kitchen can be accessed from the inside or outside, and it comes with a portable induction cooktop and room for a larger portable gas BBQ. A 57L outdoor and 136L inside fridge make extended adventures easy to manage.

A large main bed occupies the front of the Bruder EXP-7 GT. The roll top conceals an indoor kitchen; (photo/Bruder)

Both models of the Bruder EXP-7 are built like tanks. The trailer’s body is made from 60mm thick marine-grade, closed-cell, quad-weave, epoxy-bonded composite that is sturdy and well-insulated thermally and acoustically. The freshwater tank is inside the body instead of underneath, safe from heat or cold temperatures.

Options for the Bruder EXP-7 are numerous, and include items such as large off-road tires, provision for Starlink, and a 240V generator and external power outlet.

Crawler Caravans BATU 535: $81,814+

The Crawler Caravans BATU 535 is rugged and off-road ready; (photo/Crawler Caravans)

• Base weight: 3,814 lbs.
• GVWR: 5,952 lbs.
• Overall length: 24 ft., 6 in.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 8 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 6 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• Freshwater tank: 36 gals.
• Gray water tank: 12 gals.
• Black water tank: 4.5 gals.
• Base MSRP: $81,814

Crawler Caravans offers a wide variety of rugged off-road recreational vehicle products that range from the Crawler ANKA rooftop tent to the huge Crawler OTAG 830 MAN camper truck. In between those is our favorite Crawler camping trailer, the Crawler BATU 535.

The BATU 535 features a riveted aluminum body and a standard double-axle independent suspension system. A suspension upgrade for severe terrain duty comes in the form of the Crawler Dynamic Suspension (CDS). It is a level-adjustable air suspension system that offers three different settings — camping, road, and off-road mode.

A surprisingly large refrigerator is one of the key features of the Crawler BATU 535 interior; (photo/Crawler Caravans)

When it comes to interior comfort amenities, the Crawler BATU 535 trailer hits a homerun. A combination furnace supplies hot water and space heating, the master bedroom is spacious, a large 65L refrigerator can hold a shopping cartload of food, and a powerful air conditioning system keeps occupants cool. The master bedroom includes a sliding door with a flyscreen and curtain.

The Crawler BATU 535 camping trailer also sports a seating area that can accommodate six people and a movable folding table that transforms the area into two bunk beds. Generous storage space can hold everything you need for long trips, with storage areas designed to carry equipment for recreational pursuits like cycling, fishing, and hunting.

The Crawler Caravan BATU 535 offers bunk beds along one side and a generously sized main bed up front; (photo/Crawler Caravans)

Standard kitchen equipment starts with a chrome countertop, chrome sink, hot- and cold-water faucets, a three-burner stove, numerous storage cabinets and drawers, and a 152L refrigerator. The bathroom has an aluminum privacy door, a steam evacuation fan, a cassette toilet, a folding sink, and a hot and cold adjustable shower head.

Some available options that we would definitely include are a 325W solar system, awning side panels, air conditioning system, upgraded extra battery, and the water tank anti-freeze system. We would also go for the optional 12,000-pound capacity winch for the Crawler BATU 535’s tail.

Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195: $142,500+

The Imperial Outdoors ExploreRV X195 is a rugged camping trailer with four-season capability; (photo/Imperial Outdoors)

• Base weight: 5,500 lbs.
• GVWR: 9,920 lbs.
• Overall length: 26 ft., 1 in.
• Exterior width (including fenders): 7 ft., 6 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 9 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• LPG capacity: Two 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 60 gals.
• Gray water tank: 60 gals.
• Base MSRP: $142,500

Imperial Outdoors is a recreational vehicle builder created by Nelson Industries, an experienced custom ice-fishing house manufacturer. The company’s decades of acquired know-how creating well-insulated severe cold-weather habitats makes the four-season capability (down to -40 degrees F) of its newest ruggedized off-grid camping trailer no surprise to us.

A luxurious bathroom is just one of the ExploreRV X195 camping trailer’s highlights; (photo/Imperial Outdoors)

Additional feature highlights of the new XploreRV X195 are a fully boxed and powder-coated steel perimeter frame, a 240W roof-mounted solar system with a 360A lithium battery, and 60 gallons of fresh and gray water capacity.

The exterior composite walls and one-piece composite floor are fully insulated. The well-equipped XploreRV X195 kitchen offers a cooktop, refrigerator, sink, and plenty of storage. A full bathroom offers a shower and dry flush toilet.

Creature comforts inside the Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 camping trailer make the living space a relaxed place for up to four people, day or night. A cold-weather furnace quickly brings the inside of the XploreRV X195 up to a cozy temperature when needed.

And, during warm summer days, the low-profile high-efficiency 12V roof-mounted air conditioner can cool off occupants in no time at all. A full-size walkaround bed and convertible dinette provide sleeping space for up to four persons. That same dinette can be reconfigured into conversational and mealtime roominess when the sun comes up.

Upscale styling and appointments are featured throughout the ExploreRV X195 interior; (photo/Imperial Outdoors)

The Xtreme Package of standard upgrades for the Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 includes the Cruisemaster ATX independent suspension system with airbags, disc brakes, and a parking brake. Large off-road tires, an articulating hitch, an onboard air compressor, a front-mounted utility box with LPG and generator storage, heated and insulated water tanks, and an upgraded lithium battery and 240W roof-mounted solar system with an inverter and monitor panel are part of the package.

Kimberley Kampers Kruiser T-Class T3: $176,544

Kimberley Kampers’ Kruiser T-Class T3 is the company’s largest and best-outfitted rugged camping trailer; (photo/Kimberley Kampers)

• Base weight: 5,600 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,705 lbs.
• Overall length: 24 ft., 4.8 in.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 10.8 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 8.4 in.
• Interior height: 6 ft., 8 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 6
• Freshwater Tanks: 53 gals. main; 32 gals. rear
• Gray Water Tanks: 16 gals. under shower; 32 gals. for sink
• Base MSRP: $176,544

Kimberley Kampers has been building rugged off-road camping trailers for 30 years, and the company continues to knock out superbly designed and built small camping trailers, midweight hybrids, and large luxury T-Class caravans. The Kruiser T-Class T3 caravan is the largest and our favorite among the Kimberley Kampers family of off-road-capable rugged camping trailers.

A heavy-duty independent air-ride suspension system lies underneath the Kimberley T3 camping trailer; (photo/Kimberley Kampers)

The Kimberley Kruiser T-Class T3 features an airbag suspension system with monotube shocks. The suspension is adjustable for the best possible ride quality over any type of terrain. The suspension can be raised or lowered for ideal towing stability, or to level the trailer at the campsite.

An electric-over-hydraulic vented disc brake system offers superior braking performance over the typical drum brakes usually found on camping trailers, and the system includes a one-touch parking brake.

The Kimberley Kruiser T-3 camping trailer’s sturdy body is made from a combination of high-grade alloys, thermoplastic materials, marine-grade stainless steel, and hot-dipped galvanized steel. Inside the Kimberley T3, you’ll find a full-size shower (with a curved-glass enclosure) and en suite with dual overhead fans, composting toilet, vanity, sink, and lights. A full-size queen island bed, elevated junior bunk beds over the queen, and a convertible couch/bed provide sleeping arrangements for up to six people.

Possibly the most sumptuous of off-road camping trailer interiors is found in the Kruiser T3; (photo/Kimberley Kampers)

Kitchen facilities in the Kruiser T-3 can be found inside and out. Standard inside is a large benchtop with a generously sized sink, hot/cold water faucet, 190L fridge/freezer, dual-plate induction cooktop, and microwave. The outside kitchen offers a large sink, hot/cold water faucet, two-burner stove/grill, and 20-pound LPG tank in standard kit.

The standard power system for the Kruiser T3 includes an AC charger, AC inverter, DC charger, DC output, two solar regulators, and a smart monitor.

Among the many options for the Kimberley Kruiser T-3, the one we like most is the mobile repeater station and signal booster for reception in remote areas.

MDC XT17 HRT: $74,990+

The MDC XT17 HRT camping trailer sports a slide-out rear bed and slide-out exterior kitchen; (photo/MDC)

• Base weight: 6,446 lbs.
• GVWR: 7,716 lbs.
• Overall length: 25 ft., 2 in.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 10 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft.
• Sleeping capacity: 3 to 4 people
• LPG capacity: Two 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 42 gals.
• Gray water tanks: 21 gals.
• Base MSRP: $74,990

The MDC XT17 HRT is the flagship of the company’s full line of rugged camping trailers. It was designed and built to handle rough roads (or no roads at all) and keep its occupants comfortable and well cared for during extended off-grid adventures.

Features such as a powerful conditioner, an internal shower and en suite, inside and outside kitchen facilities, and roomy living space make the MDC XT17 HRT camping trailer a worthy option for those with an active outdoor lifestyle looking for a comfortable backcountry basecamp.

An independent coil spring and dual shock suspension gives the MDC XT HRT major off-road chops; (photo/MDC)

Underneath the XT17 HRT trailer’s sturdy aluminum alloy body structure is an off-road capable chassis that begins with a fully welded frame made of a 6×2-inch galvanized steel hot rolled rectangular tube. Supporting that is an X-Track independent suspension system with coil springs and twin shock absorbers on each side.

Combined with aluminum alloy wheels, large off-road tires, and 12-inch electric brakes, the undercarriage of the XT17 HRT offers adventurous explorers the confidence to travel far from the highway and go places few others can reach.

The external stainless-steel slide-out kitchen provides a campout atmosphere to the XT17 HRT. It includes a propane-fired cooktop, a washboard sink with a hot/cold water supply, and a separate slide-out refrigerator. The standard issue 13.8-foot manual fold-out awning creates cover from sun or rain for the outdoor kitchen.

The strikingly attractive and full-featured interior is a highlight of the MDC XT17 HRT camping trailer; (photo/MDC)

Inside the MDC XT17 HRT camping trailer, a queen-size pillow-top innerspring mattress (in the rear slide-out) and a convertible dinette can sleep up to four people. The bathroom offers a Thetford cassette toilet and a wet-bath shower.

Other interior features include internal laminated benchtops with a glass-lid propane stove/convection oven combination, a microwave, and a fully plumbed sink with a glass lid. A Dometic air conditioner, Truma hot water system, and Dometic heater make for easy living in the XT17 HRT.

OPUS 15 Hybrid: $53,495+

Interior living space is boosted by the OPUS 15 camping trailer’s pop-up roof and rear slide-out; (photo/OPUS)

• Base weight: 5,159 lbs.
• GVWR: 6,393 lbs.
• Overall (closed) length: 23 ft.
• Exterior width: 7 ft.
• Exterior height: 8 ft., 10 in. (roof closed)
• Interior height: 6 ft., 5 in. (open); 5 ft., 5 in. (closed)
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• LPG capacity: Two 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 63 gals.
• Gray water tank: 17 gals. 
• Black water tank: 10 gals.
• Base MSRP: $53,495

OPUS Camper currently produces four rugged off-road-ready camping trailers. Three of the four are lightweight low-profile trailers that blossom into standing-room tent structures. The fourth (our favorite in the OPUS line) is the Opus 15, the company’s largest and only hard-sided camping trailer.

The sturdy OPUS 15 body is made using Dibond aluminum composite panels with an aluminum frame sub-structure. A fully hot-dip-galvanized and welded-steel frame mates the OPUS 15 body to an independent trailing arm suspension system that features dual shock absorbers and large springs positioned for optimum performance off-road or on the highway.

The superb craftsmanship displayed inside the OPUS 15 makes it one of our favorite rugged camping trailers; (photo/OPUS)

The Opus Camper OP15 trailer is a live-in hard-sided camping trailer with a pop-top that offers full standing room inside and a rear slide-out carrying the king-size bed. All buttoned up, the Opus Camper OP15 offers a low profile for easy towing. Once parked and all opened up, it presents a spacious feel with large windows and a well-thought-out interior layout.

In addition to the master king bed are large bunk beds, and a full bathroom with shower, sink, and flush toilet. The dining area offers plush seating and an adjustable table.

A large main bed occupies the rear slide-out of the OPUS 15 hard-sided hybrid-style camping trailer; (photo/OPUS)

Interior equipment includes a Truma Combi Eco furnace (hot-water system), Dometic 13,500-BTU roof-top air conditioner, TV with indoor and outdoor mounts, stereo system with four speakers, and numerous 110V and USB ports.

Cooking is done outdoors using a nicely executed slide-out kitchen featuring a stainless-steel sink, four-burner stainless steel stove, and a food-prep deck. A 12V fridge/freezer combo is on a second outdoor slide-out.

Off-grid adventure in the OPUS Camper OP15 is made easily accessible with standards such as three 100A AGM batteries, a 300W solar panel setup, and utility storage for two 6-gallon fuel cans as standard. You can boost that capability with options such as a DC charger, or lithium batteries and an upgraded charger.

Palomino Pause 20.3: $124,995+

The Palomino Pause is a line of camping trailers purpose-built for rugged off-road adventures; (photo/Palomino)

• Base weight: 7,859 lbs.
• GVWR: 9,459 lbs.
• Overall length: 25 ft., 2 in.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 10 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 9 in.
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4
• LPG capacity: Two 30-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 76 gals.
• Gray water tank: 30 gals. 
• Black water tank: 30 gals.
• Base MSRP: $124,995

At first glance, the Palomino Pause 20.3 may not look like a camping trailer that can handle rugged duty. But don’t judge the Pause 20.3 by its cover. Underneath the skin there lies a sturdy structure supported by a lightweight but strong aluminum huck-bolted frame and off-road suspension from MorRyde.

The MorRyde independent air ride suspension system comes with Bilstein off-road shocks, delivering 25 inches of ground clearance and a comfortable and secure ride over any road surface. An articulating hitch is standard equipment.

The floorplan of the Pause 20.3 displays the camping trailer’s well-thought-out and spacious interior layout; (photo/Palomino)

The Garmin O.N.E Control system standard on the Pause 20.3 camping trailer can perform one-touch trailer leveling, off-road navigation, entertainment, and smart control over some electronic functions.

A roof-top 600W solar system, two 540A lithium batteries, a 3,000W inverter, and two 50A solar chargers are also standard issue. Solar upgrades available for the Palomino Pause 20.3 camping trailer include two more 540A lithium batteries and two 300W portable solar panels.

The Pause 20.3 body features a composite floor, walls, and roof. No wood is used in this trailer’s construction. Heated and insulated water tanks are standard, as is a puncture-proof underbelly, full body wrap, automotive-style off-road rear bumper, and polyurethane-coated front wall and extrusions.

Inside the shell of the Pause 20.3 camping trailer is a folding queen bed, convertible seating, a foldable table/bed, a large and fully equipped bathroom, rear pantry storage, and all-aluminum cabinetry.

A full-featured slide-out exterior kitchen is one the highlights of the Pause 20.3 camping trailer; (photo/Palomino)

An indoor and outdoor kitchen are standard on the Pause 20.3 camping trailer. A 15.6 cubic-foot refrigerator, 12V dual-zone cooler, 21-inch oven, three-burner cooktop, microwave oven, and 16-inch round stainless sink provide everything a camp chef needs to prepare meals.

An extended slide-out exterior kitchen makes outdoor cooking a breeze with a 12V dual-zone cooler, combination grill/griddle, collapsible sink, pull-out prep table, and outdoor pantry.

Tribe Trailers Expedition 500: $55,000+

Tribe Trailers offers the compact yet well-outfitted Expedition 500 rugged camping trailer; (photo/Tribe Trailers)

• Base weight: 3,660 lbs.
• GVWR: 4,100 lbs.
• Overall length: 16 ft., 8 in.
• Exterior width: 7 ft., 2 in.
• Exterior height (closed/open): 6 ft., 11 in.; 9 ft., 6 in.
• Sleeping capacity: 3 to 4 persons
• LPG capacity: Two 20-lb. tanks
• Freshwater tank: 42 gals.
• Gray water tank: 18 gals.
• Black water tank: 18 gals.
• Base MSRP: $55,000

The Tribe Trailers Expedition 500 is a rugged and compact hard-side pop-up camping trailer with a long list of amenities and creature comforts. It also offers heavy-duty construction and an off-road capable suspension system to make off-grid camping adventure possible. The Tribe Expedition 500 deserves serious consideration when looking for a rugged off-road towable.

A beefy independent air-ride suspension enables the Tribe Expedition 500 to travel where few others can; (photo/Tribe Trailers)

One of the things that makes the Tribe Expedition 500 camping trailer a natural choice for off-grid exploration is the ease of towing created by the design of the trailer’s lightweight all-aluminum collapsible body. The Expedition 500 is designed like a box within a box.

The top box can be lowered onto the lower box to go from a tall and roomy 9 feet, 6 inches high (measured from the ground) in full campsite setup to a low-profile, easy-to-tow 6 feet, 11 inches. Add the beefy independent A-arm suspension system with dual air shocks and coil springs, and you have a rugged camping trailer with serious off-road travel abilities.

The floorplan of the Tribe Expedition 500 camping trailer reveals its Swiss Army knife-like versatility; (photo/Tribe Trailers)

In a relatively small space (approximately 11 feet long, 7 feet high, 7 feet wide when open) the Tribe Expedition 500 packs in a 51×78-inch master bed up front, a convertible dinette that can sleep another adult or two children, a kitchen with a gas stove and sink, and an enclosed combination bathroom/shower with a sink and toilet.

Large windows help make the interior feel larger than it is, and the overhead storage cabinets can hold all the gear you want to keep warm and dry inside the cabin of the Tribe Expedition 500 camping trailer.

An outdoor slide-out kitchen offers a portable stove, a food prep area, and a separate slide-out for a refrigerator. The Tribe Expedition 500 features an electrical system that includes interior and exterior LED lighting, a 200A lithium battery, water tank level sensors, a voltage monitor for AC and DC power, a 1,000W inverter, and a solar power system control unit.

Rugged Camper Trailer Buying Guide Need to Know

What Makes a Camping Trailer Rugged?

If you’re wondering what to look for when searching for the rugged off-road capable camping trailer best suited for your brand of outdoor adventure, we have some recommendations.

Sturdy Construction

Much of the recreational vehicle industry builds camping and trailer bodies using a method referred to as “stick and tin.” This construction is similar to the wood framing of a home covered by aluminum. It’s fine for general use, but not the best choice for extreme terrain or weather conditions.

The better choices are those trailers with metal (usually aluminum) skeletons draped with modern composite sheeting. They can offer weight savings and better structural integrity.   

Upgraded Suspension

Axle-less suspension systems like those made by Timbren are a first step up from the average trailer with beam axles beneath its coach. For the next step up, made to handle rough or dirt roads and remain smooth on the highway, independent suspension air-ride systems such as MORRryde produce are your entry ticket into the rugged trailer category.

Articulating Hitch

When browsing for a rugged camping trailer, you will often see the term “articulating hitch.” It’s a key piece of equipment. If it’s standard, great. If it’s an option, get it. An articulating hitch provides a revolving joint between the tow vehicle and the trailer that helps the trailer and its suspension system more easily navigate rough terrain.

(Photo/MDC)

Need-to-Know Trailer Talk

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum safe permissible weight for a trailer, including all cargo, fluids, LPG, and optional equipment.

Base, Dry, Tare, Unladen: You may see it expressed differently depending upon the manufacturer, but they mean the same thing — the total weight of a base-model trailer in standard equipment trim, with no cargo, fluids (freshwater), or LPG.

Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): Sometimes referred to as Rated Cargo Load, is the maximum amount of cargo weight the trailer can safely hold. This includes everything you load (all gear food, bikes, etc.) into the trailer, full water tanks, filled propane tanks, and batteries.    

Tongue or Hitch Weight: The manufacturer’s published tongue weights are established using base-model trailer weights. It should be between 10% and 15% of your trailer’s weight when fully loaded. More than 500 pounds of tongue weight can place stress on the rear suspension and adversely affect the steering and overall handling of anything less than a ¾-ton or larger pickup truck.

A weight-distributing hitch can mitigate these problems by leveraging some weight off the hitch and back onto the axles. An easy way to accurately measure your trailer’s tongue weight is to use a drive-on public scale. See this Blue Ox guide to measuring tongue weight.