It was beyond awesome to see “some” small RVs with a ladder💥solar💥Goodyear tires💥a true queen bed💥theater seating💥a TV💥a fireplace💥an oven💥a porcelain toilet💥a shower door💥a Maxxair vent fan💥and no uncomfortable “1950’s diner” booth dinette👍👍👍
All RV salesmen need to watch your videos and learn something. You're honest and no bs attitude is very respectable. You point out the flaws of any RV and don't fake it and I like that. I'd rather travel 1,000 miles to buy from you vs other dealers. RESPECT, and keep up the vids man
This is a wonderful and Highly informative video. Anyone looking for a camper should bookmark / save this video! I was actually surprised that my old Grand Caravan had more towing capacity than most Grand Cherokee Jeeps
I have a like new 1st Gen. Tundra with tow package. It's rated at 7,300 Lbs, I wouldn't feel right with anything over 6,000 Lbs. I feel perfect would be 5,500 Lbs
I'm a former old school OTR & LTL driver with over 2 Mil. miles in trucks. I learned OTJ how important weight management is (the truck, not mine) LOL@@JoshtheRVNerd
Great video Josh. Thanks a lot for not forgetting about those of us that can't afford to buy (and maintain) a big a** truck. I hope that you can make more videos about them.
I really enjoys this 'collection series' of video's! Realizing there's only so many rv's that can be included, an 'honorable mention' list would definitely have to include the WW/Salem 171RBXL and 167RBK models. Great vid, thanks so much for putting it together for us, very helpful and informative :)
This is a great video because it tells us the maximum weight of the camper (and what can tow it). What would be GREAT would be if the Bish's (and other vendors') websites had the GVWR as a searchable value. They're all searchable ranges of the empty weights. And while that's not horrible, in itself, it would just make it easier to start from the hard restriction in the first place.
Thanks for this. I really needed this a couple of years ago. However, due to your teaching, I am limiting GVWR to 4000lbs since I have both mountains & wind to limit the capacity
Thank you Josh, these are my favorites class of campers. Well I have moved up from a nissan frontier to a tahoe with the tow package. I still prefer these lighter models with tandem axles.
Professor 🧑🏫 Josh, The RV Nerd 🤓, 1) I like this comparison video idea, keep going with it. 👍👍 2) I had to take a second and third look at the bathroom on the Freedom Express. At first I thought terrible position for the toilet 🚽 (6:30 mark). Why couldn’t they just turn it to the right more, then on the second look I had seen this was the best they do or it would be right up against the wall. Upon the third look I had come up with an idea for extra room. Seems that the curved shower door is in the way of your legs. What would you think if they just eliminated the shower surround altogether and just go with a shower curtain. Yes readers and fellow classmates, I know that it would “cheapen” it, but isn’t it already entry level camper? 3) On the Ember I had noticed the built in tire chalks. Impressive. 4) Another job well done Josh. 37) Will you lend me the money to purchase the entire Bish’s RV company so that I can give you a 20% raise? 😂
Josh, You completely overlooked the GEO/E-Pro models. All light weight, all well accoutremented. Their 15 foot units are great. The 14 foot Imagine is another great trailer. I would be hard pressed to tow anything over 4k lbs in any ofther vehicles you listed. Just because they list 7000 lbs doesnt mean they will confidently tow them. But, you know that, this is just my 2 cents. Sometimes, a smaller tow vehicle requires some safety compromises. And you are right about the Maverick, Maybe an old pop-up at best.
really enjoyed this type of analysis. Only comment (and its just me), I would like to see more no slide campers, For us, the next camper (if we decide to move up) is still leaning towards the Geo Pro 19FB (no slide). I believe 4500 lbs max so well within our next vehicle which we want 6000lb towing so we can venture outside flatland of FL. Each year more options and improvements. Again your type of reviews are invaluable to us out here that can barely spell R V :) be safe thanks again
I tow a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100bh with a Dodge Durango Hellcat 8700 tow capacity 1590 payload does great! Camper is only 7ft wide so it works with the Durango’s mirrors.
I really like this format of video. it gives a quick reference point for a lot of different models and styles of campers. Would it be possible to do one for campers at or below 4000lbs GVWR? I have a 2024 maverick with the tow kit, so I'm interested in the units you'd recommend. maybe include pop-up campers too?
i have the 2022 tahoe z71, max towing 7700lbs. did bunch of research and landed on jayco 264bhw. other candidates were apex 208bh and nobo 20.3. reason i went for jayco 264bhw is no slide, slide are really nice to have but im just really scared about maintaining the slides as there are other 1000 things we have to maintain as rv owners haha. but great choices!
Useful info Josh! Jeep Gladiator owner here with the max towing package. So with all the stuff and 2 large dogs in the truck, and all our stuff, how do we calculate that into our weight capacity? Or am I overthinking?
Thank you, thank you, thank you uncle Josh .Exactly what i have been looking for, dual axle RV to tow with a 2024 Ford Freaking Ranger. I know you included single axle, but my personal wants include dual axle, under 6500 lbs and les then 23 feet so I am not towing a sail down the road. The imagine 17mke and Fredom Express 192RBS looks like good fits for me, though the latter's bath looks a bit small. By the way, is the 17mke really just a bit more then21 feet long? always worry about length manufacturers quote.
I've been towing my 2024 Freedom Express 192RBS with my 2019 Ford Ranger and it's a good combination. Up and down mountains with no complaints. It's just me and my dog with a few clothes, so the weight is probably just over 5,000 pounds.
What about a video of campers that a standard SUV, with a max of 3,500, can tow? I love your videos and your honestly about both the pros and cons of the campers.
Recently discovered and really enjoying your videos. I'm considering buying a Maverick w/ 4k tow package, and the Winnebago Hike 100 H1316SB has caught my eye. Seems like the towing number are pretty close. In your opinion is this combo safe/legal? Thanks again for the videos and feedback if you have time.
Thoughts on a similar list for tent trailers/hybrids and/or toy haulers? I have a half ton but towing something with a max GVWR of 7500 lbs is so much more comfortable. Especially with an off road package pickup.
03 Suburban and wanting to get the Delta 292Rl. Not going far. Staying Local within 40 Mile radius. Any comments about towing with this just from point A to point B
I have a 2004 1/2 ton 'Burb. Advertised hitch weight is 750 with a weight distribution hitch. The 2024 292RL is showing a 800lb hitch weight, then add 100lb for the wdt, 100lbs for 2 propane tanks, 100lbs for 2 batteries, you're over 1k lbs hitch weight, and that's before loading ANYTHING in the rig :( On the 'comparison spreadsheet' I made, I have it add 265lbs to the campers advertised hitch weight. I figured 2 20 LP tanks (80lbs), 2 200ah batteries (100lbs) and the WDH at 85lbs.
At that point too many options become available I fear. There are too many variant truck configurations and too many RVs options fitting within those to clearly "block out" a video like this
If your a Nissan Frontier owner you need to read your manual. I wouldn't touch any of those. What will get you is the max frontal tow area. My 2018 Nissan Frontier SV crew cab while it came with the tow package is limited by the max frontal tow area, and they all are in 2018, to 30 square feet which is just a bit over a larger pop up camper. It works for my family but will it work for what you want? Get the biggest truck you can afford then go camper shopping after reading your manual and making sure you understand it. Don't take anyone else's word for it. Not saying any of these dealers intend to put you in a bad situation but they see how many different tow vehicles and different campers every day. They can't know every detail. Make sure you know what vehicle your buying as well as different options and different trim levels can all impact what your vehicle is rated for. If I had to do it again I probably would have looked at a larger truck. That being said a pop up camper actually suits us just fine and no problem. If we go to upgrade though the tow vehicle will need to be upgraded as well. The reason to get more truck than you need is because you may want to upgrade campers down the road so buy a bigger truck than what you need. Check the door sticker before you buy and check the manual to see what will cause your tow rating to drop. I spent a ton of time researching and reading the manual. I even called Nissan to get an idea of what it all meant. The manual is clear as mud and you will spend a ton of time researching to understand the terms.
I've spoken to Nissan, the information in the owners manual is incorrect (at least for my 2022) and it should be 55 sq feet instead, compliant with the SAE J2807 standard that requires a minimum of 40 sq feet.
@@Falinzin do you have a contact number that you used so I could talk to them about my 2018 as that would be great if it was printed incorrectly in the manual. We tried calling and the customer service rep had no idea. Thanks for the information.
My Rockwood Minilite 2506S is considered to be under your GVWR of 7500 lbs (6884 lbs) but I am glad I have a 1/2 Ton truck (even though I will be getting a 3/4 ton next time) because with 724 lbs on the hitch you need enough payload.
@@EmberRecreationalVehicles 40 inch wide and minimum 60in tall. Those are minimum for safety. However 48in x 68in would be best. There are several trailers that meet this but they are all so heavy they require an f250 sized vehicle. That puts them out of range for most of us who have already bought f150 sized trucks.
we tow our Retro 177se with a Dodge Durango hemi (the baby smallest hemi motor), and I can hardly tell it's back there....sure, it only weighs 3500 lbs, but going up hills is a breeze
I have a 22 Colorado Z71 4WD with a tow package. This video is very helpful. I’m a single parent with one 6ft boy who wouldn’t fit in a bunk and uses a cpap so looking for ones with two twins and a table in the middle for his cpap, how many offer something like that?
Another major factor to be considered is crosswind profile on these ~20' lightweight trailers. Midsize trucks may be able to TOW these, BUT a strong crosswind would likely be disastrous.
I touch on factors like that in my full rv tours. You’re spot on. You’ll often hear me say “a midsize truck may be ok for this if local flatlanding but if you’re going thru mountains or wind zones then you’ll want to step the vehicle up a notch”
The maverick and Santa cruze are considered to be acually smaller then mid size trucks hence the lower towing capacities. Shockingly they both have relatively high cargo carrying capacities for their relative size 1500-1700 pounds.
Good job Uncle Josh! By the way, did you receive the package I sent you? Anyway, "Nerd" does rhyme with "Bird" 😂😊😅 Wear the tee when you are showing us the RVs, I bet you look phenomenal!🎉❤🎉 Enjoy,
So you traded in the Soul for the Maverick? I had a Soul, and liked it. I would seriously consider the Maverick, if I were to buy a new vehicle. I don't need a giant, half ton, pickup or anything. I think the Maverick is a cool yet functional "truck". 😎
Question. Why didn't the grand design 23 LDE, or 22MLE make the grade. Right now with a kid we are running a FSX 178bhsk but those 2 Grand Designs are on our short list for couples campers once the kid is off to college. Currently towing with a Ford Ranger, which is why sub 7500 is on our list to tow.
@@JoshtheRVNerd gotcha I was just wondering because at least on paper the Grand Designs are the same, or less weight, and length, of some of the Rockwood/Flagstaffs. I think your recommendations are great but one of the issues that had me scratch off those particular manufacturers is that they're design is very hitch weight heavy, often at least a hundred pounds more than comparable sized trailers and the big thing you're going to run into on midsize trucks before you even come close to maxing out that towing capacity is your payload, with those hitch weights. If it wasn't for those, and the Larger Surveyor legend, I wouldn't have even thought to ask because they are all in various positions on my spreadsheet lol.
All depends on the case. I cannot be sure what parts a shop uses aftermarket I have an suv version of this video here m.ua-cam.com/video/slFJxUR_9Z0/v-deo.html
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you Josh, I been watching you for a while now. I’m thinking of buying a frontier or ranger for a smaller size trailer. Keep the videos coming
I have a 2016 Tacoma and tow my Wolfpup on short trips to local nice campgrounds only. I figure camping is camping at any nice campground. No need to push it!
So what list does a tow package Expedition land? Presumably not 1/2 ton, but I think it out does most 'SUV' tow package as well. From everything I have looked at it technically has a 9200 lbs tow rating but how do you and your team break that down to comfortable? My family doesn't do any crazy off-road boondocking type camping. At the moment we haul around an enclosed trailer with all our gear for tent camping. We camp mostly as a less expensive option to hotels (there are six of us). And our trips vary from towing to a campground and chilling in the area to something like this summer where we are going from SE South Dakota all the way across to California down along the coast and then back up diagonally through colorado and such. TLDR - all kinds of driving environments.
I kind of wish you would have included one or two toy haulers on the list as well. I ended up buying one that was slightly over the tow rating in GVWR for my truck, knowing that I’d never actually be heavier than the tow rating or GCVWR. Salem FSX280. But then a few months later a neighbor was selling a old F250 that I ended up buying to pull the RV with in addition to taking some miles off the 19 Ranger. My dad also drives a Maverick. The biggest problem with it is it really isn’t a truck. It’s way more similar to an old Ranchero or El Camino, ie truck body on a car chassis. It’s unibody and not body on frame. That greatly limits what can be towed by one.
You should have used the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCVW). This is the biggest limiter. A 6,500 pound GVWR truck probably can only tow about 5,000 MAX.
Last I bought a 2023 Chevy Colorado last year. Had a Rockwood MinniLite 2205S. Didn't like the way it towed. Too much trailer for the truck even thought the truck tow capacity was more than adequate. Traded the Rockwood in for Winnebago Micro Minnie. About 1000 lb lighter and a foot narrower. Towing is much much better and gas mileage 25% to 30% better.
I think you would be surprised at how well midsize trucks do. Towing an approximately 5000lbs trailer I drove from one side of the state of Pennsylvania to the other for the eclipse. I started at 207' above sea level and read the "2250' highest point east of the Mississippi" sign and had steep climbs through the Appalachians on other roads along the route. I never had an issue keeping up with traffic. The only issue I have with the set up is the size of the gas tank. Getting 11 miles to the gallon, with an 18 gallon gas tank, means you have to refuel more. I would be stopping anyway to break the dogs, and let the family stretch their legs, but gas prices along highways can be a tad inflated due to supply and demand. I have also seen TFL trucks do a long Colorado climb, over the highest peak I believe, with a Ranger, maxed out, doing 60 mph, here in UA-cam. I honestly think people underestimate the towing power midsized trucks have these days.
Sounds very specific.. to the point there are likely only a small number of options. Maybe drop our team and get someone to hunt down that unicorn for you
I would try towing with them first before even suggesting them. This video and the SUV one a few weeks ago, imo, are setting people up for failure. Especially new RVers.
the j flight 210 is good but the dinette window below the top of the table is not good i like the forest river Shasta 2024 21ck i would make it a front twin with a extended counter where the dinette is and a wall at the foot of the camp side twin bed with a sliding door for the bedroom so when i wake up early my lady could sleep in without me waking her up for me that would be a perfect camper hitch weight 501 lb gvwr 7501 25ft 4in it would be great for half ton with trailer package Colman makes the same floor plan with less counter space Shasta new line up is from small single axle to giant even toy haulers
The Jay Flight I just watched not only feels like cramped box living but somehow it manages to lose any hint of openness with its zigzagging hallway. I’m searching for any reason someone would choose the 210QB Jay Flight. Jayco makes great RVs but this model is suffering. Nope.
Those specs come from the mfg but i don’t think that means you should push that limit Like I said about my maverick - it has a “4,000lb” rating but i sure wouldn’t
On the Apex Nano, is there the option to have an awning to goes all the way to the rear? More coverage is nicer in the sun and rain. Also, thanks for the video!
It was beyond awesome to see “some” small RVs with a ladder💥solar💥Goodyear tires💥a true queen bed💥theater seating💥a TV💥a fireplace💥an oven💥a porcelain toilet💥a shower door💥a Maxxair vent fan💥and no uncomfortable “1950’s diner” booth dinette👍👍👍
All RV salesmen need to watch your videos and learn something. You're honest and no bs attitude is very respectable. You point out the flaws of any RV and don't fake it and I like that. I'd rather travel 1,000 miles to buy from you vs other dealers. RESPECT, and keep up the vids man
wow TY so much. I sure try!
These multi-model videos are great! I'm helping a family member look for a trailer who has a mid-size pickup so I send them a lot of these videos.
Thanks for sharing!
Great information Josh! The first question a dealership needs to ask is “what is your tow vehicle”. Thank you Josh!
Absolutely needs to be one of the first things you ask
@@JoshtheRVNerd ours did. That impressed me right away.
Apex Nano 208BHS gang checking in. Been super happy with ours. Pulls great behind my F150, checks almost all my family's boxes (2 kiddos + dog).
Woo! Ty
This is a wonderful and Highly informative video. Anyone looking for a camper should bookmark / save this video!
I was actually surprised that my old Grand Caravan had more towing capacity than most Grand Cherokee Jeeps
Glad you liked it :)
TY for watching
I just love these comparison videos. Great job as always!! Thank you.
Glad you like them!
"Yeah You Know Me" & "Bad to the Bone" dropped within 30 seconds is STRONG!
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I have a like new 1st Gen. Tundra with tow package. It's rated at 7,300 Lbs, I wouldn't feel right with anything over 6,000 Lbs. I feel perfect would be 5,500 Lbs
Respect
I'm a former old school OTR & LTL driver with over 2 Mil. miles in trucks. I learned OTJ how important weight management is (the truck, not mine) LOL@@JoshtheRVNerd
We tow a trailer that has a GVWR of 5500lbs with a 2019 GMC Canyon and it tows find but I agree that I would feel uncomfortable with anything larger.
I like feelings...
This really helps narrow down whats perfect for my 18 Canyon Long Bed with max tow package. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Great video Josh. Thanks a lot for not forgetting about those of us that can't afford to buy (and maintain) a big a** truck. I hope that you can make more videos about them.
You bet!
That Imagine's Murphy bed couch is about the nicest one of those I've seen. Usually they are very blah or kinda cheap looking.
I really enjoys this 'collection series' of video's! Realizing there's only so many rv's that can be included, an 'honorable mention' list would definitely have to include the WW/Salem 171RBXL and 167RBK models.
Great vid, thanks so much for putting it together for us, very helpful and informative :)
Those re solid entries for sure. I do like that 171
This is a great video because it tells us the maximum weight of the camper (and what can tow it). What would be GREAT would be if the Bish's (and other vendors') websites had the GVWR as a searchable value. They're all searchable ranges of the empty weights. And while that's not horrible, in itself, it would just make it easier to start from the hard restriction in the first place.
Real talk: we - the Bish’s team - don’t like our website. We need to build our own
@@JoshtheRVNerd I have a used copy of "Website Design for Dummies" if you want to borrow it.
Love this video! We need more of these for midsize trucks.
I'll try to get what I can where I can!
Thanks for this. I really needed this a couple of years ago. However, due to your teaching, I am limiting GVWR to 4000lbs since I have both mountains & wind to limit the capacity
It’s a smart idea
Thanks for putting us on the list! 🔥🔥🔥
Our pleasure!
Thank you Josh, these are my favorites class of campers. Well I have moved up from a nissan frontier to a tahoe with the tow package. I still prefer these lighter models with tandem axles.
Smaller is just simpler for me
Very good information and thank you for giving us honest information on the bathroom comfort for larger persons like me 😊
My pleasure 😊
Love this camper paired with my gmc canyon, just bought one year to early, haha
Thanks Josh I put this in my save file because I'm really interested in Towing behind my Jeep Liberty Sport
Glad I could help
I think those top at 5k if I recall correctly
Love the Ember
Love these list videos! Love all the rvs you showed! Have a great day josh!
Thanks! You too!
Outstanding Josh! I look at the tandem 12k maximum units.
I believe this is one of your best videos… great job 😎
Wow, thanks!
Josh, I see you! You did this video for me...because you are sick of hearing me say, "I love that trailer, but it is too heavy." 😂
lol not quite but if it helps you to think that, then sure!
😂😂😂😂😂😂@@JoshtheRVNerd
I have the 2205s and love love love it. I do pull with a 2500 Chevy and do not use a WDH.
Very capable vehicle for that trailer. Nice choice
Professor 🧑🏫 Josh, The RV Nerd 🤓,
1) I like this comparison video idea, keep going with it. 👍👍
2) I had to take a second and third look at the bathroom on the Freedom Express. At first I thought terrible position for the toilet 🚽 (6:30 mark). Why couldn’t they just turn it to the right more, then on the second look I had seen this was the best they do or it would be right up against the wall. Upon the third look I had come up with an idea for extra room. Seems that the curved shower door is in the way of your legs. What would you think if they just eliminated the shower surround altogether and just go with a shower curtain. Yes readers and fellow classmates, I know that it would “cheapen” it, but isn’t it already entry level camper?
3) On the Ember I had noticed the built in tire chalks. Impressive.
4) Another job well done Josh.
37) Will you lend me the money to purchase the entire Bish’s RV company so that I can give you a 20% raise? 😂
lol that last one got me
Josh, You completely overlooked the GEO/E-Pro models. All light weight, all well accoutremented. Their 15 foot units are great. The 14 foot Imagine is another great trailer. I would be hard pressed to tow anything over 4k lbs in any ofther vehicles you listed. Just because they list 7000 lbs doesnt mean they will confidently tow them. But, you know that, this is just my 2 cents. Sometimes, a smaller tow vehicle requires some safety compromises. And you are right about the Maverick, Maybe an old pop-up at best.
I gave them their day in the sun here ua-cam.com/video/slFJxUR_9Z0/v-deo.html
That was a similar video focused on stuff 5,000lbs or less
Josh: Really nice to see that you included the Jay Flight 210QB in this collection. Respectfully, W.S.
It absolutely earned that spot
On the behalf of Sasquatch (my 4Runner) thank you for this list.
Josh you can tow a Sylvan Sport Go easily.
👍🏻
Would love to see an updated video version of the latest hybrid models available.
really enjoyed this type of analysis. Only comment (and its just me), I would like to see more no slide campers, For us, the next camper (if we decide to move up) is still leaning towards the Geo Pro 19FB (no slide). I believe 4500 lbs max so well within our next vehicle which we want 6000lb towing so we can venture outside flatland of FL.
Each year more options and improvements. Again your type of reviews are invaluable to us out here that can barely spell R V
:)
be safe thanks again
Awesome. Love the constructive feedback! Ty
Thank you nerd for this video. It has awesome information. Please keep up the awesome job.
Thanks, will do!
I tow a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100bh with a Dodge Durango Hellcat 8700 tow capacity 1590 payload does great! Camper is only 7ft wide so it works with the Durango’s mirrors.
That’s awesome!! Thank you for sharing
Can you do this with toy haulers?
I think the idea makes sense but I’m not sure I see enough haulers lately
I really like this format of video. it gives a quick reference point for a lot of different models and styles of campers. Would it be possible to do one for campers at or below 4000lbs GVWR?
I have a 2024 maverick with the tow kit, so I'm interested in the units you'd recommend. maybe include pop-up campers too?
I love most of your content, but this video does not deserve a thumbs up.
IT DESERVES TWO THUMBS UP?
👍 👍
More RV trailers should go for the Ember 190MSL bunk that converts to a desk office. I bet a few working couples would definitely go for it!
Yessss
They should try! But get their own patent-pending design to do so!
i have the 2022 tahoe z71, max towing 7700lbs. did bunch of research and landed on jayco 264bhw. other candidates were apex 208bh and nobo 20.3. reason i went for jayco 264bhw is no slide, slide are really nice to have but im just really scared about maintaining the slides as there are other 1000 things we have to maintain as rv owners haha. but great choices!
Ty! And ty for sharing that line of thought to the Jayco
Useful info Josh! Jeep Gladiator owner here with the max towing package. So with all the stuff and 2 large dogs in the truck, and all our stuff, how do we calculate that into our weight capacity? Or am I overthinking?
What can you tow with a Maverick truck? At best a few jet skis! I actually like the little Mav pickups........that said, it is what it is!
Mine treats me well!
Love that Surveyor. Would be perfect if they had a sister model with dual axles & 8' foot wide.
Check stuff like ibex.. sometimes you’ll find it there
Thank you, thank you, thank you uncle Josh .Exactly what i have been looking for, dual axle RV to tow with a 2024 Ford Freaking Ranger. I know you included single axle, but my personal wants include dual axle, under 6500 lbs and les then 23 feet so I am not towing a sail down the road. The imagine 17mke and Fredom Express 192RBS looks like good fits for me, though the latter's bath looks a bit small. By the way, is the 17mke really just a bit more then21 feet long? always worry about length manufacturers quote.
I only know the specs they offer. Our local teams and can measure
I've been towing my 2024 Freedom Express 192RBS with my 2019 Ford Ranger and it's a good combination. Up and down mountains with no complaints. It's just me and my dog with a few clothes, so the weight is probably just over 5,000 pounds.
Do you not camp anymore Josh?
Man not at all how I’d like
@@JoshtheRVNerd sorry
@@JoshtheRVNerdwe can loan you one!
Thank you, Josh. Nicely done!
My pleasure!
Hi Josh, could you do a similar for SUV´s like a Yukon and such, thank you
I’ll see what I can do
Thanks Josh.
My pleasure! :)
Nice spread! Thanks, Josh
You bet!
The surveyor is very nice layout for small camper. But with only a 697 cc that would be really easy to overload both the camper and a midsize truck.
Absolutely true
What about a video of campers that a standard SUV, with a max of 3,500, can tow? I love your videos and your honestly about both the pros and cons of the campers.
There’s so painfully little fitting that range nowadays
Nowhere near as many as their used to be sadly
Recently discovered and really enjoying your videos. I'm considering buying a Maverick w/ 4k tow package, and the Winnebago Hike 100 H1316SB has caught my eye. Seems like the towing number are pretty close. In your opinion is this combo safe/legal? Thanks again for the videos and feedback if you have time.
I don’t recommend the pairing. The GVWR of the hike exceeds a might Mav’s max rating
@@JoshtheRVNerd Fair point. Thanks.
Thoughts on a similar list for tent trailers/hybrids and/or toy haulers?
I have a half ton but towing something with a max GVWR of 7500 lbs is so much more comfortable. Especially with an off road package pickup.
Ty for the idea!!
03 Suburban and wanting to get the Delta 292Rl. Not going far. Staying Local within 40 Mile radius. Any comments about towing with this just from point A to point B
I have a 2004 1/2 ton 'Burb. Advertised hitch weight is 750 with a weight distribution hitch. The 2024 292RL is showing a 800lb hitch weight, then add 100lb for the wdt, 100lbs for 2 propane tanks, 100lbs for 2 batteries, you're over 1k lbs hitch weight, and that's before loading ANYTHING in the rig :(
On the 'comparison spreadsheet' I made, I have it add 265lbs to the campers advertised hitch weight. I figured 2 20 LP tanks (80lbs), 2 200ah batteries (100lbs) and the WDH at 85lbs.
Pretty sure you’re going to be in the red on payload before you even load cargo
The 17mke is nice, just needed dimmable lights .
They have dimmable lights as of 2024
Can you do this same video for full size pickups (examples: 1500 Chevy, Ford 150, ram big horn).
At that point too many options become available I fear. There are too many variant truck configurations and too many RVs options fitting within those to clearly "block out" a video like this
If your a Nissan Frontier owner you need to read your manual. I wouldn't touch any of those. What will get you is the max frontal tow area. My 2018 Nissan Frontier SV crew cab while it came with the tow package is limited by the max frontal tow area, and they all are in 2018, to 30 square feet which is just a bit over a larger pop up camper. It works for my family but will it work for what you want? Get the biggest truck you can afford then go camper shopping after reading your manual and making sure you understand it. Don't take anyone else's word for it. Not saying any of these dealers intend to put you in a bad situation but they see how many different tow vehicles and different campers every day. They can't know every detail. Make sure you know what vehicle your buying as well as different options and different trim levels can all impact what your vehicle is rated for. If I had to do it again I probably would have looked at a larger truck. That being said a pop up camper actually suits us just fine and no problem. If we go to upgrade though the tow vehicle will need to be upgraded as well. The reason to get more truck than you need is because you may want to upgrade campers down the road so buy a bigger truck than what you need. Check the door sticker before you buy and check the manual to see what will cause your tow rating to drop. I spent a ton of time researching and reading the manual. I even called Nissan to get an idea of what it all meant. The manual is clear as mud and you will spend a ton of time researching to understand the terms.
Good to know! Thanks. I’ve never towed anything so this is valuable advice 🙂
I've spoken to Nissan, the information in the owners manual is incorrect (at least for my 2022) and it should be 55 sq feet instead, compliant with the SAE J2807 standard that requires a minimum of 40 sq feet.
@@Falinzin do you have a contact number that you used so I could talk to them about my 2018 as that would be great if it was printed incorrectly in the manual. We tried calling and the customer service rep had no idea. Thanks for the information.
Great overview!
Ty!
My Rockwood Minilite 2506S is considered to be under your GVWR of 7500 lbs (6884 lbs) but I am glad I have a 1/2 Ton truck (even though I will be getting a 3/4 ton next time) because with 724 lbs on the hitch you need enough payload.
Yeah with that hitch weight you really want a more capable vehicle than the empty weight would suggest
Wish the Ember's cargo door was big enough to take a Kawasaki klr 650....hint hints, ember!
👍🏻
We’re listening! I wonder if you could tell us the EXACT dimensions you’re looking for…? 🔥
@@EmberRecreationalVehicles 40 inch wide and minimum 60in tall. Those are minimum for safety. However 48in x 68in would be best. There are several trailers that meet this but they are all so heavy they require an f250 sized vehicle. That puts them out of range for most of us who have already bought f150 sized trucks.
we tow our Retro 177se with a Dodge Durango hemi (the baby smallest hemi motor), and I can hardly tell it's back there....sure, it only weighs 3500 lbs, but going up hills is a breeze
That sounds like a good pairing
I have a 22 Colorado Z71 4WD with a tow package. This video is very helpful. I’m a single parent with one 6ft boy who wouldn’t fit in a bunk and uses a cpap so looking for ones with two twins and a table in the middle for his cpap, how many offer something like that?
Painfully few
Try Winnebago 2108tb
@@JoshtheRVNerd yeah those are a little pricey for my budget.
Another major factor to be considered is crosswind profile on these ~20' lightweight trailers. Midsize trucks may be able to TOW these, BUT a strong crosswind would likely be disastrous.
I touch on factors like that in my full rv tours. You’re spot on. You’ll often hear me say “a midsize truck may be ok for this if local flatlanding but if you’re going thru mountains or wind zones then you’ll want to step the vehicle up a notch”
I'm still waiting for the high wall A-frames to get back on the lots. Maybe with some new floor plans.
A frames were super popular for a while and have since fallen out of favor. Funny how that works
The maverick and Santa cruze are considered to be acually smaller then mid size trucks hence the lower towing capacities. Shockingly they both have relatively high cargo carrying capacities for their relative size 1500-1700 pounds.
They haul a lot of groceries lol
Good job Uncle Josh! By the way, did you receive the package I sent you? Anyway, "Nerd" does rhyme with "Bird" 😂😊😅 Wear the tee when you are showing us the RVs, I bet you look phenomenal!🎉❤🎉 Enjoy,
I did! I responded to a previous comment about them
So you traded in the Soul for the Maverick? I had a Soul, and liked it. I would seriously consider the Maverick, if I were to buy a new vehicle. I don't need a giant, half ton, pickup or anything. I think the Maverick is a cool yet functional "truck". 😎
No. Didn’t trade it
Sold it
I sold my soul
@@JoshtheRVNerd 🤣 Good one!
Max tow capacity of the Maverick with tow package is 4000 lbs and 400lb hitch weight. What could work with that?
I touched on that in the video I think. Not a lot safely fits there
Maybe some of the new Catalina 134 series
Question. Why didn't the grand design 23 LDE, or 22MLE make the grade. Right now with a kid we are running a FSX 178bhsk but those 2 Grand Designs are on our short list for couples campers once the kid is off to college. Currently towing with a Ford Ranger, which is why sub 7500 is on our list to tow.
This list is just my personal take on things. Those models are awesome but I feel their size is a bit big for what a midsize truck should be handling
@@JoshtheRVNerd gotcha I was just wondering because at least on paper the Grand Designs are the same, or less weight, and length, of some of the Rockwood/Flagstaffs. I think your recommendations are great but one of the issues that had me scratch off those particular manufacturers is that they're design is very hitch weight heavy, often at least a hundred pounds more than comparable sized trailers and the big thing you're going to run into on midsize trucks before you even come close to maxing out that towing capacity is your payload, with those hitch weights. If it wasn't for those, and the Larger Surveyor legend, I wouldn't have even thought to ask because they are all in various positions on my spreadsheet lol.
Excellent video
Ty!
Can this be done for SUVs?
Is an after-market hitch with everything added equal to a factory installed hitch?
All depends on the case. I cannot be sure what parts a shop uses aftermarket
I have an suv version of this video here m.ua-cam.com/video/slFJxUR_9Z0/v-deo.html
Are you going to do a list for full size pick up trucks ?
I have a bunch of things targeting stuff like "30ft" models or similar that'll work for full size pickups
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you Josh, I been watching you for a while now. I’m thinking of buying a frontier or ranger for a smaller size trailer. Keep the videos coming
I have a 2016 Tacoma and tow my Wolfpup on short trips to local nice campgrounds only. I figure camping is camping at any nice campground. No need to push it!
Sounds great!
Colorado is up to 7700, not 6500.
So what list does a tow package Expedition land? Presumably not 1/2 ton, but I think it out does most 'SUV' tow package as well. From everything I have looked at it technically has a 9200 lbs tow rating but how do you and your team break that down to comfortable? My family doesn't do any crazy off-road boondocking type camping. At the moment we haul around an enclosed trailer with all our gear for tent camping. We camp mostly as a less expensive option to hotels (there are six of us). And our trips vary from towing to a campground and chilling in the area to something like this summer where we are going from SE South Dakota all the way across to California down along the coast and then back up diagonally through colorado and such. TLDR - all kinds of driving environments.
That larger class of SUVs is actually something I should go thru..
@@JoshtheRVNerd That would be awesome!
Do you have a video for 1/2 tons under 10 or 11 thousand pounds?
I don’t have one by weight but I have a video or two targeting 30f or less that will encompass a lot of those
And I may have another coming yet
I kind of wish you would have included one or two toy haulers on the list as well. I ended up buying one that was slightly over the tow rating in GVWR for my truck, knowing that I’d never actually be heavier than the tow rating or GCVWR. Salem FSX280. But then a few months later a neighbor was selling a old F250 that I ended up buying to pull the RV with in addition to taking some miles off the 19 Ranger.
My dad also drives a Maverick. The biggest problem with it is it really isn’t a truck. It’s way more similar to an old Ranchero or El Camino, ie truck body on a car chassis. It’s unibody and not body on frame. That greatly limits what can be towed by one.
About the only one I considered was the 18rjb wolf pup for weight reasons
Is there another I should be looking at?
What's a perfect 2 axle for a 2021 4Runner ???
Considering it's rated at 5,000lbs there are not many tandems that even fit.. maybe this? ua-cam.com/video/jH1MGt2BuZE/v-deo.html
That Maverick is nexcellent...
My man
You should have used the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCVW). This is the biggest limiter. A 6,500 pound GVWR truck probably can only tow about 5,000 MAX.
So i have a 2021 Ranger with tow package, my question is would you be comfortable towing a Wildwood/Salem FSX 165 View or 162 Veiw with said truck?
Flat land? Shorter distance? Probably fine
Thru mountains? Probably not
Last I bought a 2023 Chevy Colorado last year. Had a Rockwood MinniLite 2205S. Didn't like the way it towed. Too much trailer for the truck even thought the truck tow capacity was more than adequate. Traded the Rockwood in for Winnebago Micro Minnie. About 1000 lb lighter and a foot narrower. Towing is much much better and gas mileage 25% to 30% better.
Wow nice. Ty for this info
I will end up with something with too
much power. Not a fan
of going 20mph up hills
in Colorado.
I think you would be surprised at how well midsize trucks do. Towing an approximately 5000lbs trailer I drove from one side of the state of Pennsylvania to the other for the eclipse. I started at 207' above sea level and read the "2250' highest point east of the Mississippi" sign and had steep climbs through the Appalachians on other roads along the route. I never had an issue keeping up with traffic. The only issue I have with the set up is the size of the gas tank. Getting 11 miles to the gallon, with an 18 gallon gas tank, means you have to refuel more. I would be stopping anyway to break the dogs, and let the family stretch their legs, but gas prices along highways can be a tad inflated due to supply and demand.
I have also seen TFL trucks do a long Colorado climb, over the highest peak I believe, with a Ranger, maxed out, doing 60 mph, here in UA-cam. I honestly think people underestimate the towing power midsized trucks have these days.
I tow a grand design 21bhe with a 24 colorado z71. Tows great. 1550 payload
Ooh that’s good to know
Is there a reason you don’t film Colman campers ?
Those are exclusive to another dealer group and sister brands to other rvs that are also in the market
i'm kinda surprised you dont fix the audio issue with your vids tbh
Josh - can you do the same video (
Sounds very specific.. to the point there are likely only a small number of options. Maybe drop our team and get someone to hunt down that unicorn for you
@@JoshtheRVNerd how ironically funny... the FB PM I sent you was concerned about 2 TTs in this video! I saw this after I sent it to you. funny!
You bought the Maverick when you should have bought the Ford Freaking Ranger!! Thanks for the list. Are you doing a 10k less list?
I’ll see what lists I can make with some limited time I have right now
@@JoshtheRVNerd no stress Josh. Was a bit tongue in cheek mostly.
Thank you!
You're welcome!
Just FYI, some 2023+ Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon trims have a 7,700 lb tow rating
Ah Ty
I would try towing with them first before even suggesting them. This video and the SUV one a few weeks ago, imo, are setting people up for failure. Especially new RVers.
the j flight 210 is good but the dinette window below the top of the table is not good i like the forest river Shasta 2024 21ck i would make it a front twin with a extended counter where the dinette is and a wall at the foot of the camp side twin bed with a sliding door for the bedroom so when i wake up early my lady could sleep in without me waking her up for me that would be a perfect camper hitch weight 501 lb gvwr 7501 25ft 4in it would be great for half ton with trailer package Colman makes the same floor plan with less counter space Shasta new line up is from small single axle to giant even toy haulers
the 2024 is a i 5 521 ck last years and back is 21 ck
The Jay Flight I just watched not only feels like cramped box living but somehow it manages to lose any hint of openness with its zigzagging hallway. I’m searching for any reason someone would choose the 210QB Jay Flight. Jayco makes great RVs but this model is suffering. Nope.
Not for everyone certainly but it’s extremely popular for its light weight, tandem axles, and nonslide setup
I would definitely question some of those tow numbers. Especially the Jeep gladiator that I wouldn't tow even a pop up with.
Those specs come from the mfg but i don’t think that means you should push that limit
Like I said about my maverick - it has a “4,000lb” rating but i sure wouldn’t
The new Lexus GX will tow 9000 lbs! Technically not a truck but is body on frame construction.
👍🏻
It’s the payload that counts. You should have a 1500 over 7500lb 2500.
Yeah you almost always exhaust payload before tow rating
More twin beds!
They're so rare..
On the Apex Nano, is there the option to have an awning to goes all the way to the rear? More coverage is nicer in the sun and rain. Also, thanks for the video!
Awnings aren’t done mfgs can adjust by request - the walls have to be set for awnings to be mounted in specific spots
#RVNerdHerd 🎉 😊 🎉
Say it with me: CHEVY COLORADO 😉🤣
You: Say Chevy
Me: Chevy
You Say Colorado
Me: Colorado
You: Now, say "Chevy Colorado"
Me: *FORD RANGER!!*
LOL - nailed it.