What SUV Can Pull a Camper: The Best Options for 2023

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

What SUV Can Pull a Camper?

Camping is a great way to get away from it all, but it can be difficult to find a vehicle that can handle the weight of a camper trailer. If you’re looking for an SUV that can pull a camper, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, you need to decide how much weight you need to pull. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your SUV is the maximum amount of weight it can safely tow. You’ll also need to consider the tongue weight of the camper, which is the amount of weight that’s applied to the hitch when the camper is attached.

Once you know how much weight you need to pull, you can start narrowing down your options. There are a number of great SUVs on the market that can handle the weight of a camper trailer. Some of the most popular models include the Ford F-150, the Toyota Tundra, and the Ram 1500.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best SUVs for towing campers. We’ll discuss the different factors you need to consider when choosing an SUV, and we’ll provide recommendations for specific models that are well-suited for towing.

We’ll also provide tips on how to safely tow a camper trailer, and we’ll discuss some of the common problems that you may encounter. So whether you’re a seasoned camper or you’re just starting out, read on for all the information you need to choose the best SUV for pulling your camper.

Suv Towing Capacity MSRP
Toyota Tundra 12,000 lbs $35,000
Ford F-150 11,700 lbs $28,000
Ram 1500 10,900 lbs $30,000

A camper is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it can be difficult to know which SUV is the best for pulling one. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing an SUV for pulling a camper, including the weight of the camper, the towing capacity of the SUV, and the ground clearance of the SUV.

In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when choosing an SUV for pulling a camper, and we will recommend some of the best SUVs for the job.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an SUV for Pulling a Camper

When choosing an SUV for pulling a camper, there are a number of factors to consider. These factors include:

  • Weight of the camper: The first and most important factor to consider is the weight of the camper. The towing capacity of an SUV is rated in pounds, and it represents the maximum amount of weight that the SUV can safely pull. If you are planning on pulling a heavy camper, you will need an SUV with a high towing capacity.
  • Towing capacity of the SUV: The towing capacity of an SUV is determined by a number of factors, including the engine size, the transmission type, and the axle ratio. The towing capacity of an SUV is typically listed in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
  • Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the SUV: The GVWR of an SUV is the maximum weight of the SUV, including the weight of the vehicle, the passengers, and the cargo. The GVWR of an SUV is important to consider when pulling a camper because it limits the amount of weight that the SUV can safely carry.
  • Ground clearance of the SUV: The ground clearance of an SUV is the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle and the ground. The ground clearance of an SUV is important to consider when pulling a camper because it affects the ability of the SUV to handle rough terrain.
  • Tire size and type of the SUV: The tire size and type of an SUV can affect its ability to pull a camper. The tire size and type should be compatible with the weight of the camper and the towing capacity of the SUV.
  • Engine power and torque of the SUV: The engine power and torque of an SUV are important factors to consider when pulling a camper. The engine power and torque of an SUV determine how much pulling power the SUV has.
  • Transmission type of the SUV: The transmission type of an SUV is also important to consider when pulling a camper. The transmission type determines how the power from the engine is transferred to the wheels.
  • 4WD or RWD capability of the SUV: The 4WD or RWD capability of an SUV is also important to consider when pulling a camper. A 4WD SUV will provide better traction on slippery surfaces than a RWD SUV.

Recommended SUVs for Pulling a Camper

Based on the factors discussed above, the following are some of the best SUVs for pulling a camper:

  • Toyota Tundra: The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds. The Tundra is also available with a 4WD system, which makes it a good choice for pulling a camper on slippery surfaces.
  • Ram 1500: The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 10,700 pounds. The Ram 1500 is also available with a 4WD system, which makes it a good choice for pulling a camper on slippery surfaces.
  • Ford F-150: The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 13,200 pounds. The F-150 is also available with a 4WD system, which makes it a good choice for pulling a camper on slippery surfaces.
  • Nissan Titan: The Nissan Titan is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 9,540 pounds. The Titan is also available with a 4WD system, which makes it a good choice for pulling a camper on slippery surfaces.
  • Chevrolet Silverado: The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 13,300 pounds. The Silverado is also available with a 4WD system, which makes it a good choice for pulling a camper on slippery surfaces.
  • GMC Sierra: The GMC Sierra is a full-size pickup truck that is available with a V8 engine and a towing capacity of up to 13

What SUV Can Pull a Camper?

When it comes to choosing an SUV that can pull a camper, there are a few things you need to consider. The first is the weight of the camper. The second is the towing capacity of the SUV. The third is the payload capacity of the SUV.

The weight of the camper is important because you need to make sure that the SUV is powerful enough to tow it. The towing capacity of the SUV is the maximum weight that it can safely pull. The payload capacity of the SUV is the maximum amount of weight that it can carry in addition to the driver and passengers.

You need to make sure that the weight of the camper, the weight of the passengers, and the weight of the cargo do not exceed the towing capacity and payload capacity of the SUV. If they do, you could damage the SUV or put yourself and your passengers at risk.

Here is a table that shows the towing capacity and payload capacity of some popular SUVs:

| SUV | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity |
|—|—|—|
| Toyota 4Runner | 5,000 lbs | 1,515 lbs |
| Jeep Wrangler | 3,500 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
| Ford Explorer | 5,000 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 6,000 lbs | 1,650 lbs |
| Honda Pilot | 5,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs |

As you can see, the towing capacity and payload capacity of SUVs vary significantly. It is important to choose an SUV that has enough capacity to safely pull the camper that you want.

In addition to the weight of the camper, you also need to consider the size of the camper. The length and width of the camper will affect how it handles on the road. You need to make sure that the SUV is long enough and wide enough to accommodate the camper.

You also need to consider the type of camper that you want to pull. Some campers are more aerodynamic than others. This means that they will be easier to pull and will get better gas mileage.

If you are not sure what type of SUV is right for you, it is a good idea to talk to a dealer or a qualified RV salesperson. They can help you choose an SUV that is the right size, has the right capacity, and is the right fit for your needs.

Tips for Pulling a Camper with an SUV

Once you have chosen an SUV that is capable of pulling the camper that you want, there are a few things you can do to make the experience more enjoyable and safe.

Get a weight distribution hitch. A weight distribution hitch helps to distribute the weight of the camper evenly between the front and rear axles of the SUV. This prevents the SUV from swaying and makes it easier to control.

Use a brake controller. A brake controller helps to apply the brakes on the camper when you are braking. This prevents the camper from swaying and helps to keep it in control.

Be aware of your surroundings. When you are pulling a camper, you need to be extra aware of your surroundings. Be sure to give yourself plenty of space when changing lanes or merging onto the highway.

Take your time. Pulling a camper is not the same as driving a car. It takes longer to accelerate and brake. Be patient and give yourself plenty of time to get where you are going.

Practice makes perfect. The more you practice pulling a camper, the better you will get at it. Start by pulling the camper in empty parking lots or on quiet roads. Once you feel comfortable, you can start pulling it on busy roads and highways.

Resources for Learning More about Pulling a Camper with an SUV

There are a number of resources available to help you learn more about pulling a camper with an SUV. Here are a few of them:

  • The American Automobile Association (AAA) offers a variety of resources on towing and RVing. You can find more information on their website at www.aaa.com.
  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also offers a number of resources on towing and RVing. You can find more information on their website at www.nhtsa.gov.
  • The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) is a trade association that represents the RV industry. They offer a variety of resources on towing and RVing. You can find more information on their website at www.rvia.org.
  • The Truck Camper Magazine is a magazine dedicated to truck campers. They offer a variety of articles and information on towing and RVing. You can find more information on their website

    What SUV can pull a camper?

There are a number of SUVs that can pull a camper, depending on the size and weight of the camper. Some of the most popular SUVs for towing campers include the Toyota 4Runner, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Ford Expedition.

How much weight can an SUV pull?

The amount of weight that an SUV can pull is determined by its towing capacity. The towing capacity of an SUV is typically listed in the owner’s manual.

What factors should I consider when choosing an SUV for towing a camper?

There are a few factors you should consider when choosing an SUV for towing a camper, including:

  • The size and weight of the camper
  • The towing capacity of the SUV
  • The type of terrain you will be driving on
  • Your budget

**What are the benefits of using an SUV to pull a camper?

There are a number of benefits to using an SUV to pull a camper, including:

  • SUVs are typically more comfortable and luxurious than trucks, making them a more enjoyable option for long road trips.
  • SUVs have a higher ground clearance than trucks, which can make them more capable of handling rough terrain.
  • SUVs are typically more fuel-efficient than trucks.

**What are the drawbacks of using an SUV to pull a camper?

There are a few drawbacks to using an SUV to pull a camper, including:

  • SUVs are typically more expensive than trucks.
  • SUVs have a lower towing capacity than trucks.
  • SUVs are not as capable of handling heavy loads as trucks.

**How can I make sure my SUV is properly equipped to pull a camper?

There are a few things you can do to make sure your SUV is properly equipped to pull a camper, including:

  • Make sure your SUV has a towing package.
  • Install a weight-distributing hitch.
  • Use a trailer brake controller.
  • Get your SUV serviced regularly.

**What are some safety tips for towing a camper with an SUV?

There are a few safety tips you should follow when towing a camper with an SUV, including:

  • Never exceed the towing capacity of your SUV.
  • Make sure your SUV is properly equipped to pull a camper.
  • Use a weight-distributing hitch.
  • Use a trailer brake controller.
  • Get your SUV serviced regularly.
  • Drive slowly and carefully.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Signal your turns and lane changes.
  • Use your headlights and taillights at all times.
  • Obey all traffic laws.

    there are many factors to consider when choosing an SUV that can pull a camper. The size and weight of the camper, the type of terrain you will be driving on, and your budget are all important factors to keep in mind. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect SUV that will meet your needs and allow you to enjoy your camping adventures to the fullest.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The maximum towing capacity of an SUV is determined by its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
  • The weight of the camper you plan to tow should not exceed 10% of the SUV’s GVWR.
  • SUVs with a higher ground clearance and four-wheel drive are better suited for towing campers on rough terrain.
  • The cost of an SUV that can pull a camper can range from $20,000 to $60,000.

By doing your research and choosing the right SUV, you can enjoy many years of trouble-free camping adventures.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.