About Soft-Sided Pop-Up Campers
Soft-sided pop-up campers, sometimes called “tent campers,” are small, lightweight campers that can be towed with a pickup truck, an SUV, or sometimes even a car. Some models weigh as little as 700 pounds (318 kilograms) and measure between 8 and 16 feet (2.4 and 4.8 meters) long. The compact size comes at a lower price than many traditional travel trailers and offers greater fuel efficiency, although with fewer amenities.

2025 Forest River Flagstaff 164MT Soft-Sided Pop-Up Camper
Advantages Of Soft-Sided Pop-Up Campers
There are some significant differences between soft- and hard-sided pop-up campers that may influence your decision on which to buy. Advantages of soft-sided models include:
- Low cost - Soft-sided trailers generally cost less
- Lightweight - Soft-sided pop-up campers are typically less durable and not as well insulated as hard-sided models, but they are lighter and easier to tow
- More interior space - They usually offer more interior space and can therefore sleep more people
Keep in mind that some campgrounds don’t allow soft-sided campers due to safety concerns posed by local wildlife, so review your potential destinations before deciding to buy a soft-sided camper.
Common Soft-Sided Pop-Up Camper Features
Like other RV types, soft-sided pop-up campers are available with a range of amenities.
For the back-to-basics camper, there are models with little more than a covered sleeping space, essentially providing an elevated tent experience. The Forest River Flagstaff OTG 171OTG is a relatively basic model but still offers a queen-sized bed and a 33-by-80-inch booth dinette.
If you want more, some models have:
- Dinettes
- Toilets
- Showers (indoor and/or outdoor)
- Sinks
- Refrigerators
- Stoves (indoor and/or outdoor)
- Storage space
- Awnings
The Forest River Rockwood HW 277 has a toilet, a shower, a U-dinette, a microwave, a sink, a three-burner stove with a glass cover, a gas oven, and sleeping space for up to six people. Some models also include a slide-out kitchen with a two-burner cooktop, sink, and griddle.
Where To Buy & Finance Soft-Sided Pop-Up Campers
Explore RVUniverse.com to find new and used soft-sided pop-up campers for sale from brands like Coachmen, Forest River, Jayco, Opus, Starcraft, and more. Need a tow vehicle? You’ll also find cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks for sale on TruckPaper.com and via the RVUniverse.com homepage.
Once you have found the right soft-sided pop-up trailer, visit CurrencyFinance to discover your pop-up camper financing options. Currency helps RV buyers secure fast funding with the best available rates and terms.
If you require shipping to bring your new RV or towing vehicle to your location, FR8Star’s network of haulers has experience in vehicle shipping, drive-away transport, and more.