Truck camper (left) and travel trailer (right)
Looking for a new RV? Not sure whether or not to choose a trailer or a camper – or what the difference is? The terms trailer and camper are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to different types of RVs depending on context. We’ll go into more detail about what these types of trailers are, pros and cons of each and how to choose the right one for your family and lifestyle.
Ready to purchase your next trailer or RV, or have questions about which one is the best choice for you? Get in touch with our expert team at Keith’s Trailer Sales today!
Trailer vs Camper – Infographic
This simple infographic provides information about the main differences between trailers and campers. To learn more, continue reading below!
Trailer and Camper – What’s The Difference?
The terms “trailer” and “camper” are often used interchangeably. However, if this is your first time buying a recreational vehicle, it can be confusing when you see some vehicles labelled as a trailer and others labelled as a camper! Let’s go over the main differences below.
Trailers
Travel trailers are a popular choice for couples and families because they come in a variety of sizes, styles and models. They are also a budget-friendly option, especially if you choose to purchase a pre-owned trailer! However, there are also other styles of trailers, such as fifth wheels or pop-ups.
• Definition: A non-motorized recreational vehicle that must be towed by a separate vehicle, such as an SUV or a truck.
• Types: Includes the popular travel trailers as well as fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-ups.
• Key Features:
- • Vary widely in size and layout.
- • Can be more spacious than truck campers.
- • Require a tow vehicle (SUV, truck, etc.).
- • Fifth wheels need a special hitch installed in the bed of a pickup truck.
Truck Campers
The reason why the terms “camper” and “trailer” are often interchangeable, is because a camper is simply another term for RV (recreational vehicle). However, a truck camper is a specific type of RV. So, all trailers are campers if you are using the term generally, but not all campers are trailers (trailers are towed by another vehicle).
Below, we’ll go over the details and key features for truck campers.
• Definition: A truck camper is a compact living unit that mounts directly into the bed of a pickup truck. Unlike trailers, it doesn’t require towing—your truck becomes the RV!
• Key Features:
- No towing needed because the camper sits on the truck bed.
- Compact and maneuverable: easier to drive and park than trailers or motorhomes.
- Off-road capable
- Detachable (many models can be removed from the truck and left at the campsite.)
- Includes basic amenities
Should I Choose a Camper or a Trailer?
This question really comes down to your definition of a camper. If by camper you mean any recreational vehicle, then a trailer is actually included! However, if you are talking about a truck camper, then the number one question is…do you have a truck? Truck campers are made to sit within the truck bed. So, if you don’t have a truck, a truck camper is probably not the best choice for you.
Trailers, on the other hand, are made to be towed by any vehicle that can safely tow the weight. In many cases, SUVs and even mini vans can tow a trailer – but you need to look at the specifications of your make and model to ensure it can safely tow before you choose a trailer. Check out our tow guide to learn more.
Types of Travel Trailers
- • Lightweight Travel Trailers (great for SUVs!)
Perfect for smaller tow vehicles like SUVs, lightweight travel trailers offer easy towing without sacrificing comfort.
- • Luxury Travel Trailers (full amenities, larger sizes)
Luxury travel trailers come fully equipped with residential-style kitchens, large bathrooms, and upscale finishes for a high-end camping experience.
- • Bunkhouse Travel Trailers (ideal for families)
These trailers are designed with families in mind, featuring built-in bunk beds and flexible sleeping arrangements for kids and guests.
- • Couples’ Travel Trailers (cozy, compact layouts)
Compact and cozy, couples’ travel trailers provide everything two people need for weekend getaways or extended road trips.
Types of Truck Campers
- • Hard-Side Truck Campers (great for braving all kinds of weather)
Hard-side campers are strong and sturdy, built with rigid walls and a roof, are usually heavier and require the use of a large truck.
- • Pop-Up Truck Campers (lightweight and fuel efficient)
This style of camper allows you to collapse the roof down during travel and pop it back up when camping. Their lightweight design makes them suitable for many types of trucks.
- • Flatbed Campers (designed for flatbed trucks)
Flatbed campers are made to sit securely within a flatbed. They are often custom-built or specialized. They are typically smaller and more ideal for couples or singles.
How To Choose The Right RV For You
There are many different types of RVs available
Purchasing an RV is a big investment – many families hope to have their RV for years to come, and many RVs act as a second home during summer vacations and holidays with friends or family. With so many options available, choosing the right RV can feel overwhelming.
Here are some questions to ask yourself as you choose the right RV for you – whether you want a travel trailer, truck camper, or something completely different!
How many people are you travelling with?
Remember, most people have their RVs for many years. You’ll want to consider not only how many people you plan to travel with now, but also in the next 5+ years. Are you planning to invite friends to your campsite and want them to stay with you? Do you have kids or are you planning to? The number of people who plan to regularly stay in your RV can help you narrow down the right style and model.
Can you tow an RV?
Many RVs are meant to be towed. However, there are also options that you can drive, as well as park style trailers that are like tiny homes and meant to be placed long-term at one location such as a seasonal lot or RV park. If you do not have a vehicle capable of towing, that will impact which models are right for you.
What amenities do you need?
What are some things you just can’t live without? Do you need a more spacious kitchen, full bathroom or climate control when travelling in cold or hot weather? You want to be comfortable in your RV, but extras will also drive up the final price tag. It’s important to think about your budget and what is most important for your RV to include.
Where are you purchasing your RV?
It’s important to purchase your RV – whether it’s a truck camper, trailer or something else – from a reputable source. When you choose to purchase from a professional and experienced dealer, they can only help you choose the perfect RV for you and your family, but it also ensures that you have peace of mind. Like any vehicle, things can go wrong – if they do, you want to ensure that you have warranty and a reputable seller to turn to.
Trailer and Campers For Sale at Keith’s Trailer Sales | Lowest Prices in Canada!
Located just north of Hillsburgh, Ontario, Keith’s Trailer Sales has been a beloved part of our small town since 2014. As a family-run business, we are dedicated to providing top-quality service and building lasting relationships with our customers.
At Keith’s, we offer all of our customers an exception experience, including personalized service, competitive pricing on all of our products and quality assurance. We can help you choose the right camper or trailer – or any other style of RV that you are interested in! We offer the highest quality brands and are the exclusive dealer of Sunset Park RVs in Ontario!
Ready to buy your used or new RV? We believe in going the extra mile for our customers. With every trailer purchase, you’ll receive a full walkthrough and hands-on demonstration, so you feel confident operating your new unit.
