Toy Hauler Under 5,000 lbs – Complete Guide To Small And Lightweight Options

Searching for a toy hauler under 5,000 lbs can be tricky when you want to carry toys on RV adventures.

While convenient, toy haulers tend to be heavy. Finding one that leaves room for extras without exceeding weight limits is a challenge.

There are a few lightweight toy hauler RVs available to choose from, and each of them is a pull-behind camper.

These RVs are travel trailers that require another vehicle to pull them. The lack of an engine or other mechanical parts significantly cuts the RV's weight.

Six Toy Haulers Under 5,000 Pounds

1. Forest River Explore Flagstaff E-Pro E19FBTH
2. Forest River Explore No Boundaries NB10.6
3. inTech Flyer Explore
4. KZ Sportsman Classic
5. KZ Escape
6. Jayco Octane Super Lite

This list gives toy hauler options for your next RV shopping trip. But there's more to know about each model's features and capabilities.

Keep reading as we examine the six toy haulers in-depth and cover key toy hauler considerations like cost and carrying capacity.

Toy Hauler Comparison Chart & Specific Details

The toy hauler RV lets you get the most recreation from a recreational vehicle.

You can use the garage-like storage area of toy haulers to house gear like surfboards, kayaks, or something bigger like a dirtbike.

Adding extra equipment into an RV could cause weight concerns, particularly if you have a truck with a lower towing capacity. 

Each of the following toy hauler RVs is considered lightweight because they fall below the empty weight of 5,000 lbs. The pull-behind models are the only toy haulers that fit into such a low-weight class.

Other full RV models, with engine and all included, weigh far too much ever to be considered lightweight.

For example, the Outlaw Toy Hauler from Thor Motor Coach has a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,500 lbs. 

So, as we finish with some general discussion, here are the examples of the actual lightweight toy haulers:

RV Model	Unloaded Weight	Cargo Capacity	Cargo Area Length	Unique Features
Forest River Explore Flagstaff E-Pro E19FBTH	3,433 lbs	1,498 lbs	6.92 ft	Fold-up bench, full bathroom
Forest River Explore No Boundaries NB10.6	1,763 lbs	1,973 lbs	N/A	Fold-out queen bed, exterior kitchen
inTech Flyer Explore	1,440 lbs	1,540 lbs	97 in	Built for off-road, optional features
KZ Sportsman's Classic	3,120 lbs	1,880 lbs	9 ft	Full bathroom, bunk beds
KZ Escape	2,770 lbs	730 lbs	N/A	U-shaped dinette, optional solar panel
Jayco Octane Super Lite	4,570 lbs	2,930 lbs	8 ft	Convertible sofas, full bathroom

1. Forest River Explore Flagstaff E-Pro E19FBTH

The Forest River Explore Flagstaff E-Pro is a lightweight toy hauler that weighs 3,433 lbs unloaded and has a cargo-carrying capacity of 1,498 lbs.

The cargo area of the Flagstaff E-Pro is 6.92 feet long, and it has a kitchenette along the length of one wall.

On the other wall, a bench-style couch folds up to allow for cargo space. 

The back of the Flagstaff E-Pro is complete with a door that folds down into a loading ramp. The doorway measures 60 by 68 inches.

In addition to the kitchenette, complete with a medium-sized fridge, there is a bathroom with a shower and a full-size bed. 

2. Forest River Explore No Boundaries NB10.6

Forest River also makes the second toy hauler RV on our list, the Explore No Boundaries.

The No Boundaries has an unloaded vehicle weight of 1,763 lbs and a cargo-carrying capacity of 1,973 lbs.

The interior space is smaller than the Flagstaff, as the No Boundaries is more trailer than RV, while the Flagstaff is the inverse. 

Consequently, the No Boundaries has fewer overall features than the Flagstaff.

The No Boundaries features an interior that is mainly dedicated to storage space outside of a fold-out queen-size bed, side tables, and a pantry.

There is an exterior pull-out kitchen as well as a rooftop tent. 

3. inTech Flyer Explore 

The lightest toy hauler on the list is the inTech Flyer Explore RV.

The Flyer Explore has a dry weight of 1,440 lbs but can increase up to 2,020 lbs with the addition of optional features.

The rear ramp opening of the Explore measures 61 inches by 59 inches, and there is an interior length of 97 inches. 

The interior of the Flyer Explorer is pretty basic, with open space for storing gear and a bed that pops out to one side of the RV to maximize floor space.

One high point of this RV trailer is that it is built for off-road performance and has upgradable features like off-road tires. 

4. KZ Sportsmen Classic

Next on the list is the KZ Sportsmen Classic toy hauler RV. This RV has an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,120 lbs and a gross vehicle weight rating of 5,000 lbs.

That means you can add 1,880 lbs to this toy hauler, including passengers and all gear.

There are nine feet of length in the cargo area and a ramp door that measures 78 by 73.5 inches. 

The Sportsmen Classic is a return to luxury compared to the most recent two RVs on the list.

This KZ comes complete with a full bathroom, bunk beds, a kitchenette, and a pull-out sofa.

On top of that, there is pass-through storage underneath the front section of the Sportsmen Classic for even more cargo on the road. 

5. KZ Escape

Also from KZ is the Escape lightweight toy hauler RV. All floorplans of the KZ Escape weigh under 5,000 lbs, the lightest model being 2,770 lbs.

That same model has a cargo-carrying capacity of 730 pounds, making the Escape more suitable for lighter cargo.

One drawback of the Escape is that it doesn't have a ramp into the storage area, so dirtbikes may not be the best cargo to bring along with this toy hauler.

The hatch door does double as a second awning to the 10-14-foot awning you'll find on the passenger side. 

The Escape features a U-shaped dinette that converts into a bed and an optional solar panel for use in off-grid camping. 

6. Jayco Octane Super Lite

Last on the list is the Jayco Octane Super Lite toy hauler. The RV has an unloaded vehicle weight of 4,570 lbs and a cargo-carrying capacity of 2,930 lbs.

The Octane Super Lite has a seven-foot spring-assisted ramp that opens up into an eight-foot-long cargo area.

This RV is more suited to heavier and larger equipment, like motorcycles than a few others on this list. 

The interior of the Octane Super Lite has a seating area that converts two sofas and an indoor/outdoor table into a queen bed.

There is also a full bathroom and kitchenette towards the front of the RV. 

Who Makes the Lightest Weight Toy Hauler?

The lightest weight toy hauler RV currently on the market is the Flyer Explore model from the manufacturer inTech.

On the product page for the Flyer Explore RV, inTech lists the weight range as being between 1,440 and 2,020 lbs.

That is a dry weight without any additional gear or supplies loaded into the RV trailer. 

The manufacturer gives a weight range because several optional base features alter the weight of the RV.

For example, you can add a slide-out kitchen or a rooftop A/C unit onto the Flyer Explore.

Each of those features will add a significant amount of weight. But, that being said, the base model that weighs 1,440 lbs is the lightest toy hauler on the market. 

Can you put a Car in a Toy Hauler?

Since toy hauler RVs are often equipped with a loading ramp, can you drive a car into one? If so, will the RV even be able to support the weight of the vehicle?

With most toy haulers, space and weight become an issue very quickly when it comes to attempting to haul a car. 

But some toy haulers are designed to accommodate car hauling.

For example, the Explore Work and Play from Forest River RVs have a ramp door and storage area large enough to fit a car inside.

On the contrary, all of the lightweight toy haulers discussed in this post will never be able to carry a vehicle. 

To put this into perspective, let's go back to the lightest of the lightweight toy haulers, the inTech Flyer Explore.

According to its specs page, this toy hauler trailer has a maximum net carrying capacity of 1,540 lbs.

That is far too low to support any car outside of maybe a Smart Car, which wouldn't fit in the cargo area anyway. 

What Size Car Fits in a Toy Hauler?

So, if we look at one of the toy haulers that can fit a car, the Explore Work and Play, we can tell what size car will work.

According to the RV's specs page, the Work and Play has a cargo-carrying capacity of 3,985 lbs.

Vehicles that fall within this weight range include small sedans and coupes. Even the Ford Mustang has several trims that weigh under 3,985 lbs. 

The other important measurement is the actual size of the cargo area on the toy hauler.

The garage area on the Work and Play 29SS model is 15 feet, 7 inches long.

There is plenty of space in that garage to fit most cars, meaning that weight is the primary concern with toy haulers. 

How Much Do Toy Haulers Cost?

As with all RVs and vehicles, the cost of toy haulers largely depends on factors like additions and capabilities.

Small, lightweight toy haulers like we covered in this post cost $9,000 to $40,000.

Once you move away from pull-behind RV trailers and get into fifth-wheels and other types of toy haulers, it gets much more expensive—upwards of $80,000. 

Why Are Toy Haulers So Expensive?

Toy haulers are often more expensive than regular travel trailers because they come with ready-to-use extra features.

The main feature is the ability to carry large amounts of oversized gear in the back garage area of the RV.

Additionally, many of them have excellent, big rear doors that double as ramps. 

Understanding Camper Trailers for Toy Hauling

When it comes to choosing a toy hauler, it's essential to consider camper trailers specifically designed for toy hauling.

These versatile trailers are equipped with special features to safely transport your recreational toys, such as motorcycles, dirt bikes, or ATVs, without compromising on living space and amenities.

Camper trailers offer a unique combination of storage and living areas, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable camping experience.

By selecting a camper trailer specifically designed for toy hauling, you can enjoy bringing along your favorite recreational equipment without needing a separate trailer.

Benefits of Ultra Lite Toy Haulers

Ultra lite toy haulers offer several advantages for those who enjoy outdoor adventures but have towing capacity restrictions on their vehicles.

These lightweight RVs are designed to provide ample space for both living quarters and toy storage without putting excessive strain on your tow vehicle.

By choosing an ultra-lite toy hauler, you can enjoy the convenience of hauling your recreational toys without worrying about exceeding weight limits.

These toy haulers are particularly suitable for those with SUVs or smaller trucks, as they are easier to tow and maneuver.

With a wide range of ultra-lite toy hauler models available, you can find the perfect fit for your towing capacity and recreational needs.

Importance of Weight Limits in Toy Haulers

Adhering to weight limits is crucial when selecting and using a toy hauler.

It's essential to consider the combined weight of the toy hauler, your recreational toys, and any additional cargo you plan to carry.

Overloading a toy hauler can compromise its structural integrity, affect its handling on the road, and even pose safety risks.

To avoid these issues, check the toy hauler's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and compare it to the combined weight of your toys, gear, and other cargo.

Also, consider the towing capacity of your tow vehicle to ensure it can handle the weight.

By understanding and respecting weight limits, you can safely enjoy your outdoor adventures with your toy hauler.

FAQs

What are the dimensions of lightweight toy haulers?

• The interior height of most models ranges from around 6.5 to 7 feet.
• Lengths are typically 18-25 feet.
• Widths are usually between 8-10 feet wide when towing.

How does a toy hauler hookup work?

• Toy haulers require a standard 5th wheel or travel trailer hitch.
• Electric and plumbing connections are made like a typical RV.
• Fueling is done separately for the tow vehicle.

Can you live in a toy hauler full-time?

• While some people do live in toy haulers year-round, they are generally better suited for part-time and recreational use.
• Limited space and amenities make full-time living challenging.

Do toy haulers have bathrooms and showers?

• Most have small bathrooms with toilets, sinks, and stand-up showers.
• Higher-end models may have larger bathrooms.
• Some very basic ones lack indoor plumbing.

How fast can you tow a toy hauler?

• Always follow posted speed limits when towing.
• As a general rule, travel at 60 mph or less for optimal safety and stability.
• Reduce speed further in bad weather or mountainous areas.

Do you need a special license to drive a toy hauler?

• In most states, you can tow lightweight toy haulers with a regular driver's license.
• Larger models may require a commercial driver's license or a special recreational vehicle license.

What is the best SUV for towing a toy hauler?

Full-size SUVs with high tow ratings, like the Ford Expedition, Chevy Tahoe, and Toyota Sequoia, are well-suited for towing most toy haulers.

Choose the Right Lightweight Toy Hauler for Your Needs

If your truck or SUV has limited towing capacity, focus on lightweight toy haulers under 5,000 lbs.

There are many small, lightweight toy hauler options to consider. The six models listed here offer ideas when shopping for your next toy hauler RV.

Don't be deterred by the higher cost of toy hauler travel trailers. You pay for worthwhile extra functionality that's worth it long-term.

Carefully match your tow vehicle's capacity to the right lightweight toy hauler. Prioritize garage space and features that suit your toys and travel style.

While lightweight toy haulers cost more upfront, they deliver versatility for adventure and make the most of limited towing capacity.

If you found the information in this post helpful, please check out a few of our others:

What Is a Toy Hauler? (Including 6 Detailed Examples)

What Are The Best Pop-Up Toy Haulers? [7 Great Choices]

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