Good small trailer for camping gear?

Most of the threads seem to deal with heavier trailers to camper trailers. We like to tent camp and need something just to not cram everything inside 4 Runner. We would like load the ice chest, dry food and bedding in the 4Runner and put all the gear in a small trailer. Something that is smooth and has the capacity of a 5ft Tacoma bed.
Thanks
Chad

 

I would look into a basic utility trailer. Maybe 4' × 8'. This should be more than enough room for camping gear, coolers, etc. You could even put a rack on it for Kayaks or canoes.

I've been looking at some A-frame campers and they seem to be a great middle ground. Some have racks on top for your kayak/bicycle, SUP, whatever and still a comfortable place to sleep + east to tow.

 

I've pulled a 5x8 utility trailer for years. That's the handiest thing in the world -- big enough for lumber, plywood, and home improvement stuff, small enough to maneuver around, but not so small that it makes backing up touchy. At 5 feet wide I can see it in the side mirrors. Mine is open with 12" tall side rails and a wooden bed. No brakes and it's rated to 3500#s, though that's pushing the limits without brakes. I bought it about 7-8 years ago for around $1000.

I got a tilt-bed to make it easier to load and unload some things, but it makes for a noisy trailer when it's unloaded. I bought it years ago when I had a Jeep and needed to carry more than a bag of dog food. I haven't towed it behind the 4Runner yet, but I'm not expecting any surprises.

 

I agree with the suggestion of 5x8 utility trailer as I used to have a 4x8 for my 2000 Tacoma and it was difficult to see when backing. I currently have a 5x10 utility trailer and it fits my needs perfectly.

 

So far it’s between a basic utility trailer or an enclosed one... I know they are more, but wondering it the security and keeping the weather off could be worth the extra $1000. The one I’m considering though is grey or white. Empty it’s 890lbs.

 

I hadn't thought about this. Great point! I will definitely keep that in mind when I get around to picking up a trailer.

 

Enclosed does add security. Add a few padlocks and a hitch lock, and you're safe to unhitch and drive away. With an enclosed trailer you could load all your non-perishable supplies and hardware, leave them in there, and hit the road when the urge strikes. With a little work you could put in some interior hangers and brackets to keep things accessible and safely stowed. Yeah, I'd go that route.

Make sure you get a spare tire. If they don't include one, see if they'll throw one in. If they don't, then grab one and a mounting kit at your local farm supply. I can tell you from experience it sucks to realize you never thought about a spare trailer tire until you need one.

 

Shop around for a used aluminum trailer(much easier on the fuel bill). Auto trader and other publications. A cargo trailer will keep wind resistance at a minimum(fuel savings, again) & if you decided to close it in? It wouldn't be that difficult. It'll just take a little imagination. fwiw

 

On the red trailer I posted above they came off the 2909 price to 2750 and included a spare. It does seem appealing.

 

I’ve been looking for used for a short while. The couple that had potential I’ve found I can’t get a response from....ugh.

 

Little boogers are fun to back up too - even if you can see them. Micro steering input or you'll knife it in a heartbeat.

 

I like this idea, too. A utility trailer is less expensive and immensely useful. If you're handy, web search for diy teardrop trailers. Then with some time and effort you could build a nice camper from a utility trailer.

 

I have a 6x10 enclosed trailer and I love it. Been thinking about adding insulation and electric to it for possibly staying inside it.
If you get an enclosed trailer I would suggest that the side door be RV style.

 

I think we are leaning this direction. Yes definitely a side door for our needs and ability to get in it while in our garage. I’m now wondering about the rear door. Seems like the ramp style door would be most useful vs the large barn door blowing around??? Any thoughts on that?
Chad

 

I think the rear door comes down to personal preference and need. I, personally, would probably get the side opening door so I could hang light weight things on it and still open/close the door. Side opening doors usually have a latch to keep them open when it's windy. But, if I wanted to haul heavy things around (riding mower, ATV, wagonful of anvils), a ramp-door would be handy. Or, a side opening door and carry a set of ramps when needed.

 

There are two different styles of side door. Get the RV style. The one pictured above is not and you could get locked in while sleeping in it. The RV style can be locked from both inside and out. I’m happy I went with the ramp door because I have seen some people prop it up off the ground and use it as a deck.

 

Problem is I don’t have much to choose from unless I custom order it. They are 3 months out. Which I’m fine with...wife just wants something now.‍♂️ Left to her shed just buy the cheapest thing out there... ugh

 

You might be able to upsell her on something else. Check out https://www.outdoorsy.com/ and you might find some nice little camper trailers to rent around you. I'm considering that when it warms up a bit more here. Wife isn't excited about tents, and finding an available cabin is difficult when the weather gets nice. You could try out a small, nicely equipped rental and she might sign on for something a little more upscale than a traditional trailer. Or, at least that would buy you time if you end up placing a custom order.

 

She actually likes the tent camping. I do too. We did look at campers and that opens up a whole other can of worms....