If you are considering purchasing an RV or travel trailer, I am not surprised. Afterall, this year has seen a rise in the popularity of RVs and campers.
While this will hopefully result in more families exploring outdoor spaces, it also translates to a reduced availability of camping sites in developed campgrounds.
For that reason, it is a good idea to consider a camper that is well suited for dry camping. And what is dry camping, you ask? It is the ability to camp in your RV or camper without hookups.
Having this ability results in increased freedom to explore areas that would otherwise be out of reach. Yet, it requires more preparation and special equipment.
For multiple reasons I explain at the end of this article, it is my opinion that travel trailers are more convenient for dry camping than motorhomes.
The camping industry is growing by leaps and bounds and showing no signs of slowing down. Thus, we have plenty of options for everything and travel trailers are not exceptions.
The question then becomes: which travel trailer should you choose for dry camping?
I am here to help you choose the best dry camping travel trailer for your needs.
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Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer: Comparison Table
| Travel Trailer | Size (ft) | Dry Weight (lbs) | Floor Plan | Sleeping Capacity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman Lantern LT 17B | 21.5 | 3,042 | Bunkhouse | 5 | Check Price |
| Forest River Grey Wolf 22RR | 28.83 | 4,871 | Toy Hauler | 4 | Check Price |
| Keystone Outback 328RL | 37 | 8,767 | Rear Living | 4 | Check Price |
| Keystone Outback 330 RL | 37 | 8,839 | Rear Living | 3 | Check Price |
| Forest River Fibe 29BH | 37.75 | 7,258 | Bunkhouse | 8 | Check Price |
Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer: The Details
1. Coleman Lantern LT 17B – Best Budget Dry Camping Travel Trailer
Whenever you are starting out new in a hobby, it is better to go with a budget option. This is because you are trying out things and would like to know how everything would turn out to be.
The same can be said about dry camping.
Therefore, it would be unwise to spend extensively, especially on a travel trailer as they are expensive already. We start off our list with a budget option, Coleman Lantern LT 17B.
Related: RV Accessories: Must-Haves for your new RV
This travel trailer measures 17 ft on the inside and, at a dry weight of 3000 lb, is relatively lightweight compared to some other bulkier options. This increases the range of vehicles you can use to tow it.
Wondering what your vehicle can tow? Go to this guide.
Let’s talk about power.
We include this trailer on our list for its ability to use solar. With its pre-wiring for solar, you just need to plug the portable solar panel and it will charge up your batteries. How cool is that?
On the outside, we see a 20-pound propane tank and behind it, there is a rail to place your battery.
This trailer got a revamp from the previous version by replacing the traditional way of consuming the propane furnace with a modern 5200 BTU electric fireplace. Additionally, this is a fireplace that is installed with temperature control.
We also have an 8000 BTU AC and for this, you won’t have to invest heavily in a generator. Something like the Ryobi Bluetooth 2300-Watt inverter generator would work fine. This generator would work with all things turned on in this travel trailer. Obviously, you won’t be running the fireplace and the AC at the same time.
Moving on, let’s talk about kitchen and dining areas.
This travel trailer includes a good-sized dining table that can be converted into a bed. Moreover, you get a fully equipped kitchen with drawers, a microwave, and a two-burner cooktop. We have also got a high-rise faucet and good countertop space considering the size of this trailer.
As for holding tanks, we have black, grey, and freshwater tanks with good capacities.
It comes with a mini or dorm-size refrigerator. The good thing about this refrigerator is that it can run on a 12-volt battery. This makes it a great option for dry camping.
As for sleeping space, one thing that makes this travel trailer a good choice for a family is its bunkhouse floorplan. Therefore, if you have a kid or two you can use the twin over a full bunk bed.
However, bunk beds do take up space and this is mostly countered by having a small bathroom. And this is what we see in this travel trailer. The bathroom has a plastic commode with a foot flush. The shower has limited headspace for anyone who is over 5’8”. In addition, there is no sink in the washroom to wash your hands and you will have to use the kitchen sink for that purpose.
Besides the bunk beds, we have a queen-sized bed that has storage space beneath it and you can use it to store things like your fishing rods, camping chairs, and outdoor shelters.
One disappointment in both the bunk beds and the master bed is the low-quality mattress you get. However, you can always add a mattress topper to increase comfort, or upgrade the mattress altogether. For that reason, I would say that this should not be a deal-breaker.
Related: RV Bathroom Accessories and Bedroom Essentials
As far as connectivity, this trailer has the pre-wiring for Winegard Connect 2.0, and that gives you the Wi-Fi capability wherever you have cellphone coverage.
Among other things to like, we see a power awning. You just need to press the button and it will spread out. You can use this as a shade or tent to offer you protection from rain, sun, and other factors if you plan to sit outside. Moreover, it is easily adjustable where you can adjust its pitch and slide.
All things considered, in Coleman Lantern LT 17B we have a travel trailer that has got a ton of amenities with good overall construction. Above all, it comes at a mouth-watering price-point and presents itself as a great entry-level option for anybody who wants to try dry camping.
Where to get one
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2. Forest River Grey Wolf 22RR – Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer Under 30 Ft
Next up, we have a mid-sized two-axle toy hauler, which can be towed by numerous vehicles. I would say you need a half-ton truck to tow this trailer.
Where to get one
Regarding its suitability for dry camping, we have dual 20-pound propane containers that can run your refrigerator, oven, and water heater. We also have a Group 27 battery that can be charged by the 50-watt solar panel that comes with this trailer.
Above all, it does have a solar port, so if you plan to go completely off-grid, you can do that.
Simply put, Grey Wolf 22RR has got you covered when it comes to dry camping.
Got ample of stuff with you? Look no further. This trailer features a large cargo area with six tie-downs and 90 x 75 high rear access for door and ramp.
The floorplan gives you your home’s comfort by utilizing the dedicated space and maintaining the furniture in tip-top shape. The interior is roomy enough to relax with a front queen bed and twin sofas for sleeping accommodations.
Are you hungry and unsure of where to prepare your meals? Start your breakfast and lunch with the perfect three-burner cooktop, oven, and microwave. You will love the walk-in-pantries where you can store a whole lot of cooking essentials. In the newer version, we have a 10 cubic foot dual-door refrigerator.
If you prefer cooking outdoors, then you will love this travel trailer. This toy hauler embeds an RVQ Quick Connect, which lets you access a low-pressure grill to knock up your sandwiches and burgers.
And speaking of outdoors, you also have a power awning and a kitchen skylight that acts as a shade.
What’s more? The master suite could be another exciting feature of a toy hauler, including a spacious bedroom with cabinets, a walk-in bathroom, and a closet, making it convenient and comfy camping for you.
Trapped in mud after a strenuous hiking adventure? Use an outdoor shower to get rid of all the impurities.
If you want to feel the essence of the interior lights, then the Forest River trailer incorporates HDMI entertainment and LED lights that stay on throughout your journey.
Furthermore, this trailer’s other features include USB charging stations, Bluetooth stereo system, one-year manufacturer warranty, 6-gallon gas, and skylight over the shower.
In summary, Forest River Grey Wolf 22RR is a good option if you want a mid-sized trailer with good storage options. It has good amenities and some thoughtful features with an outside TV bracket, sink cover to provide you more kitchen countertop space, glass cover for the burner, and six tie-downs. Simply put, it has got most bases covered to be an efficient dry camping travel trailer.
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3. Keystone Outback 328RL – Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer Under 40 FT
The Keystone Outback 328RL is one of the highest-rated trailers in the market. Weighing at 8767 pounds, this modern style trailer offers some extraordinary features.
Where to get one
For dry camping, you have two 30-pound propane containers that can run two refrigerators and of course the burner. For solar, we have got Furrion 10 amp solar socket and that should take care of the rest of your needs.
Keystone recently introduced their industry-first solar and lithium-battery energy system, so you can trust them with your solar needs.
What’s more? The 50W power source supplies power to charge your electronic gadgets.
Due to the heated and enclosed underbelly, the tinted safety glass windows, various smoke detectors, and block foam insulation, you can travel continuously with a peace of mind regarding the trailer’s durability.
When it comes to the floorplan, you get a dinette to prepare your snacks and meals during the night or lunch. The exciting part is that the dinette converts into a bed for sleeping purposes. The bed includes two cup holders and an overhead cabinet to place small stuff.
With the 35,000 BTU furnaces and 15,000 A/C, it makes it pleasant for you to face every climate condition with ease.
The kitchen is also equipped with a skylight, and that makes preparing meals ever so pleasant with perfect natural light.
Touring the countryside in style has become effortless and hassle-free thanks to the Keystone Outback 328RL RV trailer and the fantastic features it offers. From large panoramic windows and vaulted ceilings to the theatre seating and fireplace in the rear living, elegance is all that is felt since the moment you step foot into the unit.
Above all, the trailer has a private master suite with a king-size bed slide that allows you to comfortably spend your evenings. Moreover, there is a full-wall wardrobe that easily holds all of the garments and toiletries you’ve brought along.
There is a 50-inch TV that serves as an entertainment source, a three-burner range with an oven and microwave that allows you to cook anything you crave, and lots of storage space to keep anything you want. All in all, this top of the line trailer is the best for the ultimate camping trip experience.
I have to say there are many reasons to encourage you to go with this elegant trailer. The number and the quality of amenities on offer are above par. It provides all the luxuries that make you feel like you’re staying in a hotel or, better even, your home.
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4. Keystone Outback 330 RL – Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer for Couples
The Keystone Outback 330RL is our fourth pick and ranks among the best trailers out in the market. This along with 328 RL from Keystone are traditional rear-living models.
Where to get one
Upfront, they are identical with a walk-around king bed and a slide. In addition, 330 RL has, like 326 RL, a huge wardrobe closet in the front cap.
The bedroom has private pocket door access to the bathroom and the bathroom has a neo-angle shower. However, they differ slightly in the bathroom.
Down in the middle, they are identical with kitchen counter space against an inner wall. In addition, there is a large kitchen island with a big sink and a skylight over the island.
There is a sofa sleeper on the rear wall.
Both, 328 RL and 330 RL have opposing slides and 330 RL puts the theater seats in the off-camp side slide next to the pantry range and single fridge. Moreover, the camp-side slide has a booth dinette and a very large entertainment center with a 50-inch TV and fireplace.
The 330 RL also has an outside kitchen.
In other features, 330 RL has a dry weight of 8839 pounds and takes the camping experience to a whole new level with its outperforming features.
Since it is designed for a lifetime of quality RVing, the trailer is equipped with block foam insulation, enclosed and heated underbelly, various smoke detectors, and tinted safety glass windows.
All of the above-stated features combine do give the Outback owner a sigh of relief with its exceptional performance.
Moreover, due to the presence of a 15,000 BTU air conditioner and a 35,000 BTU furnace, the trailer allows you to go through any sorts of climate changes smoothly. Furthermore, the 50 AMP power source in the trailer ensures that you never run out of electricity and have access to all of the electric features at all times so you can charge your electronics easily.
For dry camping, you can run the refrigerator on its two 30-pound propane containers. In addition, Keystone has incorporated Furrion 10 amp solar socket and that gives the ability to switch to solar completely.
Related: Best RV Battery for Dry Camping – A Buyer’s Guide
One disappointment in this otherwise great travel trailer is limited sleeping space. However, if you’re someone who likes to travel alone or go with just one or two friends/family members, this would be the best option for you. I would say it is a great option for any couple who is thinking about shifting to RV camping.
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5. Forest River Vibe 29BH – Best Dry Camping Travel Trailer for Families
The Forest River Vibe 29BH is a modern two-slide travel trailer weighing less than 7500 pounds.
Where to get one
The trailer is durable and it allows large families to travel efficiently and comfortably without adjusting for space; I mean, it can sleep as many as 8-9 people! The queen bed in the private bedroom adds more to the comfort and luxury of the trailer.
There are three bunks specifically for the kids as well as a slide-out that provides more floor space. Thi allows the family to not feel crowded and the kids to play games with less restraint.
In essence, it is a fiberglass travel trailer with a skeleton of aluminum construction. The trailer is not only well-constructed to provide durability and stability, it also delivers maximum comfort level for long trips.
Want to drink a fizzy cold drink? Take it out from the two refrigerators situated at the exterior baggage with a TV and a spray port.
A rear window gives you a splendid view from the private bunkhouse of the trailer.
The Forest River Vibe is equipped with an excellent skylight in your L-shaped Kitchen to offer you the best shade and light. Furthermore, you get an entryway storage cubby to place dry items and other smaller camping needs such as bug spray or sunscreen.
Related: How to organize your tiny camper kitchen
We have an efficient A/C system with a more extensive duct area and that would be the perfect way to treat your staleness.
On the other hand, we get a chef’s appliance package, covering all your cooking needs.
For dry camping, all Forest River travel trailers come pre-wired for solar and you just need to add solar panels to make this work.
All in all, there are quite a lot of reasons to go for Forest River Vibe 29BH, especially if you have a big family. One of the primary reasons to consider this trailer is being extra spacious. With all the features it offers, the Forest River Vibe 29BH would be the best trailer to buy in its price segment, as it is a fully equipped trailer for the ultimate camping trip experience.
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Is a travel trailer better than a motorhome for dry camping?
When it comes to dry camping or boondocking with your family, in my opinion you are better off with a travel trailer than a motorhome. I say this because they are generally more maneuverable and relatively easier to maintain.
Dry campers also prefer them because they are more manageable in steep grades, tight turns, and getting through soft sand.
Besides, if you need to restock supplies or empty tanks nearby, travel trailers give you the ability to leave them unattended and just take your pickup truck to the nearby town or dump station.
Related: The Best Camping Chair for Bad Back: Top 10 Picks
In short, travel trailers come up as the best option when we talk about dry camping.
Yet, with so many options out there, how do you select one?
Generally speaking, when selecting a travel trailer for dry camping you should go for something that provides enough room to live comfortably.
In addition, it should be rugged enough to carry all that you need and still not overly cumbersome that it becomes a liability in itself.
Moreover, it should provide the ability to use power from solar, propane, and battery in an efficient manner. Of course, good holding tank capacity is also vital for your freshwater needs while camping.
The options I presented in this article offer a good combination of these important features.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a travel trailer for dry camping, the focus should be on finding one that makes you as self-reliant as possible. Luckily, there are a lot of options nowadays and they come all equipped to be as multipurpose as possible.
They have appliances that run on multiple power sources, so you don’t need to be in any campground to make them work.
I have listed some of my picks which I have researched and asked people who own them for their experience. While small, the Coleman Lantern LT 17B is a perfect entry level family camper to help you ease into the world of travel trailers.
If one of the attractions of dry camping is having access to remote wilderness areas, then the ability of the Forest River Grey Wolf 22RR to carry large outdoor equipment might be of great importance to you.
In other options, you can find Forest River Vibe 29BH which offers a great sleeping space and has quality construction and is a good option for a big family. For couples, who are looking for a quality option at a good price point, look no further than Keystone Outback 330 RL or Keystone Outback 328 RL.
That’s all I have on this piece. Travel trailers generally have a lot to talk about and honestly, each of these options would require separate space to do justice to them. I hope this piece was of some help in finding you one for your needs.
