Airstreams are a type of RV, well-known for their unique and stylish design. They are said to be some of the lightest travel trailers on the market (especially for what you get). But how much does an Airstream actually weigh?
And why is weight such an important factor when it comes to RVs?
Let’s take a closer look.
- How Much Does An Airstream Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Basecamp Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Bambi Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Caravel Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Flying Cloud Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream International Weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Globetrotter weigh?
- How Much Does An Airstream Classic Weigh?
- Why the weight of your Airstream matters
- Towing Jargon: What do these letters mean?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final thoughts on the weight of an Airstream
How Much Does An Airstream Weigh?
An Airstream can weigh anywhere from 2,585 lb (1,173 kg) to 8,261 lb (3,747 kg). This is based on the size and model of Airstream.
Each model is a little different, so be sure to check the weight before purchasing.
The lightest model in the lineup is the Airstream Basecamp (2,585 lb), while the heaviest is the 33FB Classic model Airstream (8,261 lb).
As the weights differ so much, let’s take a look at each individual model, including the various layout.
How Much Does An Airstream Basecamp Weigh?
The Airstream Basecamp is a lightweight and compact camping trailer that is built for adventure.
It weighs between 2,585 lb (1,173 kg) and 2,635 lb (1,195 kg), making the Airstream Basecamp very easy to tow behind most SUVs, even small to mid-sized SUVs.
The Basecamp also features an outdoor shower, making it the perfect choice for a weekend getaway.
Below are the weights of the Basecamp, as well as the, even more, adventure-ready “Basecamp X” model:
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Basecamp | 2,585 lb (1,173 kg) |
| Airstream Basecamp X | 2,635 lb (1,195 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream Bambi Weigh?
An Airstream Bambi weighs between 3,000 lb (1,361 kg) and 4,300 lb (1,950 kg).
This makes it a lightweight option that is easy to maneuver. It is also small enough to be able to fit into most campsite parking spots.
Despite its compact size, the Airstream Bambi still has the iconic curved aluminum design associated with all Airstream trailers.
Below is a breakdown of the weight of the various lengths of Airstream Bambi trailers.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Bambi 16RB | 3,000 lb (1,361 kg) |
| Airstream Bambi 19CB | 3,650 lb (1,656 kg) |
| Airstream Bambi 20FB | 4,000 lb (1,814 kg) |
| Airstream Bambi 22FB | 3,900 lb (1,769 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream Caravel Weigh?
The Airstream Caravel has always been a lightweight and nimble option, having first been introduced in 1956.
That being said, an Airstream Caravel weighs between 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) and 4,300 lb (1,950 kg) depending on the trailer length.
The latest Airstream Caravel is known for its upscale modern interior and panoramic front and rear windows.
It has everything you expect from a large Airstream, in a smaller and lighter format.
Below is the weight breakdown of the various lengths of the Airstream Caravel models.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Caravel 16RB | 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) |
| Airstream Caravel 19CB | 4,000 lb (1,814 kg) |
| Airstream Caravel 20FB | 4,300 lb (1,950 kg) |
| Airstream Caravel 22FB | 4,200 lb (1,905 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream Flying Cloud Weigh?
An Airstream Flying Cloud is a versatile and family-friendly travel trailer that weighs between 4,761 lb (2,160 kg) and 6,557 lb (2,974 kg).
It is one of the most popular Airstream models and offers up to 13 different floor plans, the most of any Airstream trailer, to suit everyone’s needs and style.
The floor plan and weight of the Airstream Flying Cloud models are listed below.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 23CB | 4,761 lb (2,160 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 23CB Bunk | 4,821 lb (2,187 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB | 4,806 lb (2,180 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB | 5,503 lb (2,496 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB Twin | 5,503 lb (2,496 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 25RB | 5,600 lb (2,540 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 25RB Twin | 5,600 lb (2,540 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 26RB | 5,973 lb (2,709 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 26RB Twin | 5,973 lb (2,709 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 27FB | 5,868 lb (2,662 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 27FB Twin | 5,868 lb (2,662 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 28RB | 5,979 lb (2,712 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 28RB Twin | 5,979 lb (2,712 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Bunk | 6,557 lb (2,974 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB | 6,517 lb (2,956 kg) |
| Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB Twin | 6,517 lb (2,956 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream International Weigh?
The Airstream International weighs between 4,761 lb (2,160 kg) and 6,517 lb (2,956 kg), it is a cool and calming camper that is perfect for any adventure.
It sleeps up to six people comfortably and was designed to strike a fine balance for the perfect getaway, it’s easy to see why this camper is such a popular choice for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.
With its stylish design and peaceful style, the Airstream International trailer is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a comfortable and convenient camping experience.
Below is a breakdown of the different layouts of the Airstream International, along with their weight.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream International 23CB | 4,761 lb (2,160 kg) |
| Airstream International 23FB | 4,806 lb (2,180 kg) |
| Airstream International 25FB | 5,503 lb (2,496 kg) |
| Airstream International 25RB | 5,600 lb (2,540 kg) |
| Airstream International 25RB Twin | 5,600 lb (2,540 kg) |
| Airstream International 27FB | 5,868 lb (2,662 kg) |
| Airstream International 27FB Twin | 5,868 lb (2,662 kg) |
| Airstream International 28RB | 5,979 lb (2,712 kg) |
| Airstream International 28RB Twin | 5,979 lb (2,712 kg) |
| Airstream International 30RB | 6,517 lb (2,956 kg) |
| Airstream International 30RB Twin | 6,517 lb (2,956 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream Globetrotter weigh?
An Airstream Globetrotter weighs between 5,297 lb (2,403 kg) and 6,990 lb (3,171 kg).
The Globetrotter is a luxurious campervan that is perfect for long road trips. It combines classic European style with the iconic US Airstream aerodynamic aluminum shell.
Below is an overview of the various layouts of Airstream Globetrotters and how much they weigh.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Globetrotter 23FB | 5,297 lb (2,403 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 23FB Twin | 5,297 lb (2,403 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 25FB | 6,074 lb (2,755 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 25FB Twin | 6,074 lb (2,755 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 27FB | 6,258 lb (2,839 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 27FB Twin | 6,258 lb (2,839 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 30RB | 6,990 lb (3,171 kg) |
| Airstream Globetrotter 30RB Twin | 6,990 lb (3,171 kg) |
How Much Does An Airstream Classic Weigh?
An Airstream Classic is the heaviest and longest model of all Airstreams. It weighs between 7,788 lb (3,533 kg) and 8,261 lb (3,747 kg).
With the added weight, also comes added amenities, making the Classic a great option for long-term travel or even full-time living.
One of the best features of the Airstream Classic is its large storage capacity. It has more storage than any other Airstream model.
Plus, the residential-style kitchen means you won’t have to compromise on your comfort while on the road.
Below is an overview of the different layouts of Airstream Classic along with their weight.
| Model | Weight |
| Airstream Classic 30RB | 7,788 lb (3,533 kg) |
| Airstream Classic 30RB Twin | 7,788 lb (3,533 kg) |
| Airstream Classic 33FB | 8,261 lb (3,747 kg) |
| Airstream Classic 33FB Twin | 8,261 lb (3,747 kg) |
Why the weight of your Airstream matters
A major consideration when it comes to deciding on an Airstream is the weight because not all vehicles can tow the same amount.
Generally larger vehicles can tow more than smaller sedans and crossovers, meaning that only larger trucks and full-size SUVs could be capable of towing the heavier Airstream models.
If you have the latest Toyota RAV4 Adventure, for example, you are only legally able to tow the 16ft Airstream Trailers such as the Bambi 16RB, Caravel 16RB, or either of the Basecamp models. This is because the towing capacity of the RAV4 Adventure is 3,638 lb (1,650 kg) and these models all fall under that weight limit.
This is not just bureaucratic nonsense either, it’s for your own safety.
When you go over the recommended towing rate of your vehicle you will have a difficult time slowing down the trailer or coming to a stop.
The inertia effect worsens as well when the Airstream starts sliding behind the car, the trailer then has an inertia advantage and can influence your car’s handling, usually swaying it from left to right until it jack-knifes.
With the added weight on the rear of the vehicle, you may also experience a lack of steering input as the rear is squatted down causing the front of the car to lift up.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the weight doesn’t play much of a role due to the aerodynamic design of the trailers.
Towing Jargon: What do these letters mean?
When in the market for new or used travel trailers you need to understand and follow the guidelines set out by your vehicle manufacturer and the trailer company to always have the safest and best driving experience.
Understanding all these terms can be quite confusing, so we’ve broken down the most important ones below.
NCC: Net Carrying Capacity
This is the amount of weight the travel trailer can carry, it does not include the weight of the trailer.
Exceeding this weight can cause excess inertia, which makes it difficult to stop, slow down or control the trailer when towing under extreme conditions.
Over time this can also take a toll on the trailer’s chassis, suspension, brakes, and on your towing vehicle as well, which can lead to damage.
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
This is the maximum allowed loaded weight of your vehicle (or trailer) set by the manufacturer.
This weight includes the vehicle/trailer weight, the cargo or built-ins, and it also includes the weight of the passengers.
Exceeding this weight can make the vehicle/trailer difficult to control, stop or slow down.
UBW: Unit Base Weight
This is also called ‘Dry Weight’, it is the weight of the travel trailer when it left the factory.
TR: Tow Rating
This is the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow.
HW: Hitch Weight
Also known as ‘Tongue Weight’, this is the maximum weight that can be put on your vehicle’s tow hook.
If this weight is exceeded, the trailer can cause the vehicle to excessively squat at the rear and lift the front.
As mentioned above, this can cause unresponsive steering and worsen braking performance.
If you are close to your vehicle’s hitch weight, we recommend using a distribution hitch to help level out your trailer and tow vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tow vehicle for an Airstream trailer?
The best vehicle for towing an Airstream trailer is one that has a towing capacity above the weight of the intended trailer. There are no other real factors that need to be considered.
Vehicles like the Ford F150 can tow all of the Airstream models with relative ease (just about all of the current generation of Ford F150s that is).
From the lightest to the heaviest of Airstreams, the weight difference is quite minimal for the average person with a vehicle that has a fairly common 6,000 lb (2,722 kg) towing capacity.
These vehicles will be able to tow most of the Airstream lineup and even some of the bigger models.
Are Airstream trailers more fuel-efficient?
The aerodynamic design of Airstream trailers makes them approximately 20% more fuel-efficient than your average trailer.
The frontal area on Airstreams is the same across most of the lineup, as well as the aerodynamic principles and weight distribution, meaning that no matter which model you take, there is little to no difference in the fuel efficiency when towing one of these silver bullets.
Final thoughts on the weight of an Airstream
An Airstream trailer can weigh anywhere from 2,585 lb (1,173 kg) to 8,261 lb (3,747 kg), but this doesn’t have a significant effect on the fuel consumption when towing one.
Instead, it’s important to be mindful of your vehicle’s max towing capacity and use that as a guide when selecting an Airstream model.
We hope that this article has been helpful in giving you an idea of how much an Airstream weighs and has given you a better sense of what to expect when towing.
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