Off Road Trailer
Off Road Trailers Review
Sometimes your off-road vehicle is simply not enough for that overlanding adventure you were planning to go on. You realize that you need more space that your vehicle can’t provide and you’re wondering what to do next. That’s where off road trailers come in.
An off road trailer will give you a superior cargo carrying capacity, as they add more storage space to your overland setup, allow you to carry items that simply don't fit or you don't want to put inside your vehicle, allow you to convert them into a more of a camping setup with water, kitchen, you name it, and some even have space in them to sleep.
The following review goes over different offroad trailers, reviewing each and every one of them, as well as making some comparisons and explaining different features of each trailer.
What Is An Off Road Trailer?
Think about an off road trailer as an extension to your overlanding vehicle. An off-road trailer is a specialized type of trailer designed to withstand and navigate through challenging terrains and rugged environments that are not easily accessible by standard vehicles or conventional trailers. These trailers are built with enhanced suspension systems, sturdy construction, and features that allow them to traverse uneven surfaces, rocky paths, sandy deserts, forest trails, and other off-road conditions.
Unlike regular trailers designed primarily for smooth highways, off-road trailers are engineered to handle the stresses and strains of rough and unpredictable landscapes. Off road trailers have reinforced frames and suspension systems to absorb shocks from uneven terrain, they are equipped with durable and rugged tires, have increased ground clearance and built in amenities, and can even be customized to fit your off-road needs.
As we mentioned before there are many different types of off road and overlading trailers, and we will go over them in a minute. The most popular overlanding trailers are usually compact ones and that is due to the fact that they are the easiest to maneuver through tight trails. An off road trailer can even be used to mount a roof top tent over it so that you can reduce the weight load on the roof of your vehicle and use the roof rack to carry more overlanding gear and supplies.
Off-road trailers cater to outdoor enthusiasts who seek more adventurous and immersive experiences beyond the beaten path. Whether it's off-grid camping, exploring national parks, embarking on backcountry adventures, or undertaking expeditions into remote regions, these trailers provide the means to access the untouched beauty of nature while maintaining a level of comfort and self-sufficiency.
Offroad Trailer Types
Now, as we said before, there are many different types of off-road trailers out there, each one built for different purpose. We will go over all of them but do keep in mind that we do not provide all of the off road trailer types that will be mentioned right now.
Off Road Trailer Build
These trailers are built for extended off-road travel and are equipped with features like robust suspension, larger tires, heavy-duty construction, and customizable storage solutions. They are one of the smallest off road trailers you can find, and they are the easiest ones to maneuver over rough and unforgiving terrain.
They are also one of the lightest overlanding trailers that you can acquire, and they do not require immense torque power from your vehicle in order to haul it. Besides being able to store your gear and a variety of different supplies, they can also withstand the weight of a roof top tent on top of them.
Military Trailer
Military trailers are essentially offroad trailers but with a higher ground clearance, made of tougher and much stronger and heavier materials, and truly built for any condition. A military trailer can be taken anywhere and caryr pretty much anything in it without problems. However, they are much heavier.
These rugged trailers can weigh more than 1250 lbs completely empty, which is already a considerable weight, meaning as you tow it you will not only need more power and fuel, but a stronger tongue. The great thing is: a military trailer won't break.
Teardrop Off Road Trailer
A teardrop trailer got its name from resembling a teardrop shape. This type of off road trailers is very aerodynamic, and they are compact. Now, they are a lot bigger than the aforementioned one as you can actually sleep inside them and they usually have enough room for around two people to sleep comfortably inside.
Besides providing you with a sleeping quarter, tear drop trailers also have enough room inside them to store away your extra gear and belongings. Some can even come with a small kitchen on the back of them that you can use on your camping trip. These types of trailers are easy to tow and maneuver, making them a popular choice for couples and even solo travelers.
Utility Off Road Trailers
These are some of the most basic kinds of trailers you can have but they get the job done. Now, they are pretty much the same size as the regular overlanding trailer except they are not as upgraded, and they do not have storage compartments built in where you can store away your gear. However, they are one of the cheapest options out there.
You can upgrade them as you like and adapt them to your needs. These utility trailers are mostly used for hauling gear and other equipment into remote areas. You can upgrade them with racks and other mounts that you can use to even transport smaller vehicles such as bikes and quad bikes. There are also different sizes of utility trailers.
Pop Up Trailers
A pop-up trailer, also known as a pop-up caravan or even a fold out camper is a recreational trailer that is simply a camper or a tent on wheels. It is a tent trailer that comes with a collapsible roof and walls that you can set up when you get to your camp site. Pop up trailers contain pretty much everything you would need for an overlanding and camping trip.
They have a huge interior where you would have enough room to sleep several people, have compact living quarters, a compact kitchen and some can even come with a designated bathroom and shower area. Pop up trailers are smaller, lighter, and cheaper versions of an off road camper trailer that you can strap on your vehicle and take with you on your next off road adventure.
Off Road Camper Trailer
These off road camper trailers are the biggest off road trailer models out there and they have everything you would ever need for your next overlanding adventure. They are designed to withstand extreme off-roading and extreme weather conditions. They have a sturdy chassis, suspension, and tires that can travel on harsh off-road terrains.
Inside you can find everything you would ever need. Depending on the size of the trailer, you will find sleeping areas, a decked-out kitchen, living quarters, bathroom and shower, and storage areas, all beautifully integrated into a compact camper design. They are one of the most expensive trailer options out there but also one of the most premium options as well.
You can even mount a roof rack on a camper trailer to increase its storage capacity and even add a variety of accessories to it such as awnings and more. Since they are very large they may not be the most suitable option for extreme off road terrains but they are great for those long overlanding trips.
Other
As you can tell, there are so many different off road trailer models out there. The ones we mentioned are some of the most popular options out there but there are also many more that are great for off-roading and overlanding. A lot of the off-road trailers that we didn't mention are variations of the mentioned ones as well as a variety of DIY and custom-built off-road trailers.
It's important to choose an off-road trailer that aligns with your intended use, the type of terrain you plan to explore, the number of travelers, and the amenities you require. Each type of off-road trailer offers a different balance of comfort, capability, and mobility, enabling you to embark on unforgettable adventures in remote and rugged environments.
Why Do I Need An Off Road Trailer For My Car?
As we previously mentioned, an off road trailer is needed when you have extra gear that can’t fit anywhere inside your vehicle or even on it. It lets you have more storage capacity for those longer overlanding trips. In the case of some bigger off-road trailer models, it also provides you with a place to sleep.
So, how do you know if you need an off-road trailer? Well, first of all, do you have enough room inside your vehicle or even on your roof rack to store everything you’ll need for your next overlanding trip? If the answer is no, then you should consider getting a trailer that will suit your needs and will be big and equipped enough to carry everything you might possibly need.
Now once you figure out if need an off road trailer, the next thing you should ask yourself is what kind of an off road trailer should I have and how big should It be. If you need an off road trailer that will be used only for hauling your gear, then you should opt for the smaller utility or overlanding trailers. If you need a trailer that will provide extra sleeping quarters, then you should consider getting bigger off road camper style trailers.
Best Off Road Trailers
Venturist Off Road Camper Trailer
The Runaway Campers Venturist Standard is one of the best off road camper trailer models out there. The Venturist also stands as one of the most adaptable and versatile off road trailers capable of fitting all the necessary gear needed for your next outdoor adventure, both inside and outside the camper. It can even house up to 2 adults inside the trailer, and if that's not enough, you can even mount a roof top tent on top of it!
Crafted with a black powder-coated diamond plate front, a single-piece fiberglass roof, fiberglass walls, and sturdy black powder-coated fenders that double as tables or platforms, this trailer is built for lasting durability against time and tough conditions. The Timbren axle-less suspension with a 4" lift allows the trailer to smoothly navigate obstacles without getting snagged.
The Venturist off road trailer features electric brakes and stabilizer jacks, preventing it from tipping backward when detached from your vehicle. It also includes an integrated AC unit encased in a protective black powder-coated shell, which is non-removable. For off-road use, the trailer comes with a Max Coupler hitch, offering a secure connection compared to a 2" ball hitch.
Instead of chains, the Venturist off road trailer uses cables that remain quiet while driving and includes a connector for powering taillights, brake lights, and brakes. At the rear, there's a hitch for mounting bike racks or serving as a tow point. Additionally, the trailer has integrated roof rack crossbars, allowing for the mounting of accessories like awnings, roof boxes, cargo boxes, or even a rooftop tent.
So whether you are a seasoned camper or just starting out, you can experience your next overlanding adventures in style with the Runaway Campers Venturist off road trailer! With many more great features to offer, this off road camper trailer will elevate your next adventure wherever you go, whenever you g, so be sure to check it out!
Benefits:
- Has a variety of options alowing you to upgrade the trailer and addapt it to your needs
- Sturdy construction that can thrive even in some of the harshest conditions out there
- Rugged off road tires able to go over any type of terrain
- Spacious interior that can sleep u to 2 adults and house a variety of gear
Venturist XS Overland Trailer
Another trailer from Runaway Campers, the Venturist XS is the perfect overland trailer for an excellent price. Starting at an affordable price point, this overland trailer comes with a set of cross bars that have a 300 lbs load rating, perfect to mount even a roof top tent on top of them, turning it into a proper camping trailer.
Thanks to a fully welded steel tube frame construction, you know this trailer is as rugged as they can get, and that's why it's considered and overland trailer. Yes, you can take it with you even through rugged roads, complex terrains and through uneven surfaces. Fitted with 33" BF Goodrich All Terrain tires, the Venturist XS is ready to go across America with you. Electric brakes give you a peace of mind when driving on the highway, whilst the LED tail lights and the wiring add to the safety features of it.
And what about dims? With a ground clearance of 22", the trailer is very safe, add to that it weighs 785 lbs and you know it's not too heavy for how rugged it is. Light enough to be carried around without too much impact. The inside of the trailer can be accessed through 3 doors, one on each side, and it measures: 45.75" W x 69.75" L x 24" H. The perfect size to fit a wide variety of gear inside of it for your next adventure.
Why do we like it?
- Rugged steel tube frame construction
- Weighs 785 lbs
- Included roof racks, perfect to turn it into an overland trailer
- Affordable price when compared to the quality
MOD UTV Small Off Road Trailer
Designed to be towed by ATVs and UTVs, this Trail Trailer Modular UTV small off road trailer features extreme versatility that allows you to adapt it to your needs, your lifestyle, and your next adventure! With a robust and reliable construction, you can be sure that this off road trailer can withstand a beating and thrive in some of the harshest environments out there, from rocky mountains to mussy streams and snowy paths! Despite it's small frame, this off road trailer packs a ton of amazing features that'll elevate your next trip, wherever you go, whenever you go!
It is constructed out of black powder coated steel that can survive the rigors of everyday use without eroding. It comes with a universal rail mounts for limitless bolt-on mounting options, allowing you to attach a variety of different accessories as well as a Tongue Tray that provides additional space for buckets, firewood, water jugs, storage crates, or pretty much anything you'd want easy access to! For a smoother ride with increased ground clearance, a Timbren Suspension system is added, and another cool addition you'll find are the "Stand-On" fenders that can even serve you as steps to get to your roof top tent or even as an extra flat countertop onto which you can place any items!
But wait, there's more! You'll also find a drop down tailgate for easy access to your gear that comes with a built-in table and cooking or seating surface. What's amazing about this ATV off road trailer is that it even comes with a set of 4 rock lights that'll illuminate the ground below the trailer as well as a turn/blinker LED signal lights, and even brake and runing LED lights that'll make this off road trailer street legal! The Trail Trailer MOD off road trailer is, as mentinoned before, one of the most versatile trailers you can find on the market, and that is all thanks to the numerous configuration option you can get it with!
With a more than affordable price, compared to other off road trailers out there, the Trail Trailer MOD ATV off road trailer can even support the weight of a roof top tent, an awning, and even many more pieces of gear you'd need for your next trip! Venturing into the unknown does not have to be a tedious task anymore. Get rid of any limitations and start your next adventure with style!
Benefits:
- Comes in many different configurations depending on your style and needs
- Very compact construction making it easy to tow
- Able to support the weight of a roof top tent and many additional accessories
- Comes with integrated rock LEDs as well as brake and running lights
OVS Military Style Expedition Trailer
By far the most affordable off road trailer you can find on the market, the OV Military Style expedition trailer was designed to be a true representation of durability, versatility, and innovation, all neatly packed into a lightweight yet durable piece of equipment that'll bring your next adventure to a whole new level! As the name says, this OVS off road trailer took inspiration from military-style trailers, ensuring reliability and durability in some of the harshest conditions and environments out there, all while being able to conquer even some of rockiest terrain you can find!
Built with alloy steel and enhanced by an electrostatic plating and military-grade two-stage powder coat finish, this off-road trailer is designed for unparalleled durability. The bed and underside are Rhino-coated to withstand even the harshest conditions on your adventures. One standout feature is its ability to accommodate tires up to 35", making it perfect for any terrain and off-road challenges. Equipped with a 2" standard hitch coupler and crossbars, it offers limitless mounting options for a rooftop tent, bikes, or any gear you need for your next adventure.
The 7-pin wiring harness seamlessly integrates with your vehicle’s wiring, featuring an electric brake system for safety and control, especially on steep descents. Marine-grade stainless steel hardware throughout the trailer ensures maximum corrosion protection and longevity in the toughest environments. With an impressive ground clearance of 29.5" with 35" tires, this trailer excels in off-road performance. Its suspension system, featuring dual trailing arms, linear coil springs, and dual shocks per corner, is engineered to tackle the toughest terrain while providing a smooth ride on paved surfaces. An optional solid tonneau cover adds extra protection from theft and the elements.
The OVS Off-Road Trailer is more than just a trailer; it's a robust companion designed to enhance your outdoor adventures. With this trailer, you'll unlock new heights of exploration, merging versatility and capability for limitless adventure possibilities.
Benefits:
- One of the most affordable off road trailers on the market
- Can accomodate up to 35" tires that allow you to traverse over any terrain with ease
- Comes with electric brake system to ensure control during steep descents
- Extremelly lightweight construction that can support the weight of any additional accessories and gear, including a rof top tent
Mod PV Camping Off Road Trailer
Looking for a top of the line camping off road trailer for your weekend adventures? Then the MOD PV is perfect for you. An affordable camping off road trailer made specifically for full sized vehicles. This is a tough, rugged and smartly designed unit.
You can choose to build it up from a series of packages, either getting just the flat bed or adding a gear tub (as shows in the picture), which is the recommended package.
With electric brakes, a timbren suspension, a 2" rear receiver, a locking tailgate, BF Goodridch KO2 AT tires, stabilizer jack, and even brake lights and rock lights, this trailer is ready to take you camping anywhere. Just add to it the trailer towers and you're ready to put a roof top tent over it, as well as an awning on the side frame for a complete camping setup. And yes, it has an 18.5" ground clearance making it suitable even to harsh paths and terrains.
Benefits:
- 23.64 cubic feet of storage
- Affordable price
- A variety of "packages" to choose from for your needs
- Max weight is only 840 lbs (full package)
Patrol XCT Off Grid Camper Trailer
100% made in USA with premium materials, made out of steel with a timbren suspension and a 2 year warranty. The Patrol XCT is the ideal off grid camper trailer. A unit that will allow you to explore even the most remote corners of the continent without ever giving up on you.
RMO (manufacturer) allows you to even change the suspension from timbren to Cruise Master if your overlanding trips are a bit more serious or rough. The trailer itself already has 15" wheels, BF Goodrich KO2 AT 31 tires (best All Terrains in the market), a lock n' roll hitch and an axless supension system (regardless of your choice) to have a higher ground clearance.
As to storage, well you have 64 cubic feet of storage inside the trailer, enough for an electric fridge freezer, cooking gear as well as other accessories. Add to that a 16" tall rack, included with the trailer, as well as two side molle panels, and you can easily put a roof top tent over the trailer, as well as adding more gear to the molle panels. Yes, this is truly a great trailer to be used as an off the grid camper.
The weight of 1175 lbs is conisderable when it comes to towing capacity of your vehicle and fuel consumption. It's on the heavier side, given is made out of 14 gauge steel, but it puts it more in the range of military trailers than anything else. It's a beast.
Benefits:
- Made 100% in USA
- Made out of steel
- Suspension system choice
- Great storage capacity
Smittybilt Scout Off Road Utility Trailer
Smittybilt has been making some of the most popular roof top tent models out there as well as a variety of overlanding and camping equipment, but they have also created this amazing utility off road trailer that will make your next off road trip a whole lot more enjoyable. This is the Smittybilt Scout off road trailer and it comes with a lot of great features so let’s get to it and see what it has to offer.
At a reasonable price, this off road trailer comes with a fully boxed galvanized steel frame which has been black powder coated to increase its resilience against harsh weather conditions and to prevent the said steel construction from eroding. It is a very rugged and durable trailer that can withstand a whopping 1763 lbs of weight capacity which is more than enough to mount even the biggest roof top tent out there and also equip it with a variety of accessories.
It also comes with an independent trailing arm suspension with coil springs, dual shocks, and limit straps for that smooth ride. It also features electric brakes with an integrated breakaway brake system as well as loads of integrated tie-down points, shackle mounts, front and rear receiver hitch, and even a removable swing-away tongue jack with large all-terrain tires.
Thanks to its large main and 2 side cabinets, you will never run out of space to store away your gear and other belongings when going on a trip. This beast of a trailer can withstand even the toughest of off road trails and it is also not vehicle-specific so it will be a great addition to any off road vehicle out there and it will certainly make your next trip a lot easier.
Benefits:
- Heavy duty off road trailer that can thrive in any environment
- Large storage compartments
- Various attachments can be added
- Can support the weight of a roof top tent
Off Road Camper Trailer Comparison
Trailer | Type Of Trailer | Interior Dimensions | Weight | Hitch | Suspension |
Venturist Standard | Off Road Camper Trailer |
70.5" Wide x 94.5" Long x 42-46" High |
1100 lbs | 2" rear accessory hitch | Timbren one tonne 4" lift |
Venturist XS | Off Road Trailer |
45.75" Wide x 69.75" Long x 24" High |
785 lbs | 2" rear accessory hitch | Timbren one tonne 4" lift |
Mod UTV | Small Off Road Trailer | 40867 Cubic Inches | Starts at 425 lbs | 2" standard ball or off-road articulating hitches | Timbren, Flixiride or Spring 2" lift |
OVS Military Trailer | Expedition Trailer | 23" Tall x 72" Long x 41" Wide At Bottom And 51.6" Wide At Top | 500 lbs | Standard Hitch Coupler | Dual Trailing Arm, Linear Coil Spring, And Dual Shock Setup |
Patrol XCT | Off Road Trailer | 72” L x 54” W (at the top of the tub) and 72"Lx 42"W (at the bottom) | 1175 lbs | 2" standard rear receiver hitch | Timbren suspension |
MOD PV | Expedition Trailer | 40867 cubic inches | Starts at 680 lbs | 2" standard ball or off-road articulating hitches | Timbren, Flixiride or Spring 2" lift |
Scout | Off Road Trailer | 47" Wide x 44" Long x 21" Tall | 1500 lbs | 2" hitch | Independent trailing A-arms, dual shocks, and integrated bump stops |
Off Road Trailer Tent Models
While there are a variety of choices when it comes to off road trailers that can house up to several people, there are also many small off road trailer models that simply do not have the capacity for it, instead, they are being used for increased utility during your off road trips. But why sacrifice the option to have a comfortable place to spend the night when you can mount a roof top tent on your smaller trailers! In this section you'll see some of the most popular roof top tents that you can mount on your off road trailer but if you want to see our complete offer you can check out our trailer tent collection.
Off Road Trailer FAQS
What are the different types of trailers?
There are many different types of overland and off road trailers out there such as; regular or small overland trailers, teardrop trailers, pop up trailers, utility trailers, camper trailers, and many more.
What makes an off road trailer?
Off-road trailers have increased ground clearance than the standard one. They also have much tougher frames and tires that are able to withstand harsh off road conditions.
Can you off road with a trailer?
Yes you can! However, you cannot go off roading with any trailer. You would need to have a trailer that is designed to be used for overlanding and off roading.
What is the best off road trailer for sale?
The best off road trailer would have to be the Vorsheer XER as it is the toughest off road trailer out there and also one of the most complete ones as well.
Is it possible to build a trailer?
Yes it is! It is possible to build pretty much anything so why not build yourself the trailer of your dreams!
Can I go overlanding with a DIY off road trailer?
Yes you can! There are many people out there that did not find any off road trailer of their liking and have decided to build one themselves. However keep in mind that before you go on your overlanding trip with your DIY trailer, you should put it through extreme tests to make sure that it can withstand in such environments.
Off Road Trailers For Sale