If you are looking for ample storage space, an expanded living area, enhanced power and fueling capabilities, outdoor entertainment spaces, and year-round protection for your outdoor gear, get yourself a small toy hauler.
As an experienced adventurer, I’ve come to rely on small toy haulers for their convenience, comfort, and versatility. On a trip to the Rocky Mountains, a sudden rain turned the trails into mudslides.
My toy hauler’s storage space, adaptable interior, and power capabilities saved the day. I created a base camp, stayed powered up, and enjoyed the outdoor entertainment area despite the rain. This experience is the reason behind my trust in the importance of a small toy hauler for any adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a beginner, this article is your ultimate guide to understanding the immense value of a small toy hauler.
Read until the end because I will answer some commonly asked questions about the benefits of owning a small toy hauler.
What Is A Small Toy Hauler?
A small toy hauler is an RV with a garage area where you can store “toys” like bikes, watercraft, and motorcycles. Think of it as a tiny home on wheels. If you step inside a toy hauler, you’ll see a garage space at the back and a living area in the front.
You can store your toys, equipment, and travel gear in the garage. It has special tie-downs and hooks that keep your toys safe as you cruise through uneven terrain for your next adventure. The back wall of the garage can open up and form a ramp, making it easy for you to load and unload your toys.
The living space is at the front, where you can relax, eat and sleep. You will find a dedicated kitchen space with a stove, sink, and refrigerator to cater to your culinary needs. There is also a bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower.
Some toy haulers offer a dedicated bedroom area, a bathroom, and a TV. But you can also expect folding beds integrated directly into the side walls that can snap open and close.
Source
The image above shows a 13-foot garage area in the back and a dedicated living space in the front. The triangular hook at the front of the living area attaches the toy hauler to an SUV or a truck for towing.
The table below presents a comparison between different classes of toy haulers in the market.
| Cargo Trailer Toy Haulers | Travel Toy Haulers | 5th Wheel Toy Haulers | Motorcoach Toy Haulers | |
| Price Range | Most affordable of all toy haulers | Around $20,000 | Usually more expensive than travel toy haulers | Most costly, reaching upto $200,000 |
| Living space | None | Sufficient- has kitchen, bathroom, and beds. Sometimes you can find a TV, speakers, and fancy lighting too. | More space than in travel toy haulers | Ample and luxurious living space |
| Storage space | Only cargo space is available | Ample | Ample | Only sufficient for motorbikes or compact vehicles |
| Towing | Required- depending upon the weight of the cargo | Required- has a detachable hitch | Required- connects to truck’s bed | Not needed- All-in-one setup with cargo, living, and vehicle space. |
| Ideal for | Individuals or couples- only if they have a living option sorted out and need cargo space. | Couples or small families | Larger families and groups | Larger families and groups |
Benefits Of Owning A Small Toy Hauler
The benefits of owning a toy hauler include the following:
- Ample storage space for your prized possessions
- An expanded living area that offers flexibility and comfort
- Power and fueling capabilities for self-sufficiency on the road
- Outdoor entertainment spaces that transform your surroundings
- Year-round protection for your outdoor gear
Let’s explore these benefits in detail and discover why a small toy hauler is a perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.
Ample Storage Space
Its sizeable garage area easily accommodates your largest and most prized possessions. This 10 to 14 feet garage has room for everything from ATVs and dirt bikes to jet skis, canoes, and kayaks.
Say goodbye to separate trailers and storage units because a toy hauler RV has tie-down points that securely transport your valuable toys, saving you time and money.
Furthermore, the adaptable garage area allows you to bring all the tools and supplies for outdoor activities. It ensures you never compromise on comfort or leave anything behind while traveling.
Expanded Living Area
Use your creativity and enhance the functionality of a small toy hauler camper’s garage. Cleaning the garage may add more living space or a flexible area matching your needs.
Many toy haulers include additional conveniences to optimize the use and comfort of this room. Examples include fold-away tables, extra seats, and contemporary sleeping arrangements like Murphy beds or sleeper sofas. This helps you relax, hold events, and spend time with your loved ones while traveling.
The additional living area you create unfolds a universe of options. You can transform it into a comfortable space for watching movies, playing games, or enjoying the gorgeous scenery. It also functions as a dining space, enabling you to host friends or share meals with your family.
You can also make a functional workstation or a designated hobby room out of the extra living space. This area provides the ideal backdrop for engaging in creative endeavors, working remotely, or enjoying your favorite hobbies.
Power and Fueling Capabilities
Small 5th-wheel toy haulers offer great self-sufficiency and convenience with power and fueling capabilities. These models provide easy connectivity to generators, ensuring a reliable power source for your adventures, whether camping off-grid or facing power outages.
Moreover, the generator can power appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, and televisions, allowing you to prepare meals, store food, and stay entertained even remotely.
This also means you can enjoy modern comforts like air conditioning, heating, lighting, and the ability to charge your electronic devices. It ensures a comfortable living environment no matter where you are.
In addition to the power benefits, toy haulers often feature integrated fueling stations. This eliminates the need to search for external facilities to refuel your recreational vehicles or toys.
Watch the video below from ATC Toy Hauler to better understand the concept of integrated fueling stations:
Dedicated fuel stations are particularly valuable when exploring areas with limited access to fueling stations or when you want uninterrupted outdoor activities. A toy hauler RV’s power and fueling capabilities give you freedom and self-sufficiency to indulge fully in outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Entertainment Spaces
You can convert the ramp of your toy hauler into a functional space. Extend the ramp to make a roomy patio or deck that enhances your outside experience with comfort and design.
This outdoor entertainment area transforms into the ideal venue for various activities thanks to the integrated side walls for safety and security. You may have a picnic table and chairs, soft outdoor seats, and cushions for lovely meals. Moreover, you can add a portable grill if you plan outdoor cooking.
This expanded living area allows you to savor your meals in the fresh air, soak up the sunshine, or relax under the captivating night sky. It is ideal for taking in breathtaking views, hosting memorable gatherings with loved ones, or simply finding tranquility amidst nature’s beauty.
You can integrate lighting systems, outdoor speakers, and other technologies in some toy hauler models. These additions enable you to create a vibrant and inviting ambiance, enhancing your outdoor gatherings and making them unforgettable.
You can transform the loading ramp into a fantastic outdoor entertainment area with a toy hauler RV. It offers countless options for unwinding, eating, and mingling in nature.
Year-Round Protection for Your Outdoor Gear
One significant benefit of using a toy hauler is its ability to shield your gear from weather conditions. Whether it’s the scorching summer sun or the harsh winter snow, your outdoor equipment remains secure and undamaged.
Unlike other RV models, toy haulers often have convenient winterization options. This means you can easily find models featuring heated, dual gas, and insulated ducts. You can ensure that you and your gear stay warm, dry, and comfortable during your winter adventures.
Aside from that, toy haulers shield your equipment from road dirt, rain, flying rocks, and other roadside debris. Your equipment will be clean, dry, and ready to use when you need it. Additionally, if you plan to store motorized vehicles, many toy hauler models include special flooring to withstand oil and gas stains.
How Does A Small Toy Hauler Work?
A compact toy hauler works by coupling the functionality of an RV with the capability to provide ample storage space. The regret of leaving your favorite equipment behind because of less room becomes history. You can pack everything you need along the journey, equipping you to tackle any adventure that might come your way.
A toy hauler is perfect for people like me and you, who cherish the freedom to pursue our passion. It combines the best features of travel trailers and 5th-wheel RVs, translating into unparalleled convenience and adaptability.
Whether you like going off-road, riding motorbikes, or engaging in water sports, a toy hauler makes it easy to move your gear. It has the perfect design for adopting an adventurous mindset and seizing every opportunity to explore unconquered terrain.
With a tiny toy hauler, you can travel with your hobby. So get ready, get moving, and let your spirit of adventure rise to new heights. With a toy hauler on your side, the options are virtually limitless.
Factors To Consider When Buying A Small Toy Hauler
There are several factors to consider before buying a small toy hauler. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Garage size
- Travel trailer vs. 5th wheel
- Sleeping capacity
- Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
- Consider usage
Let’s look at these factors in greater detail:
Garage Size
The size of the garage in a toy hauler can vary depending on the RV model. A typical toy hauler garage measures 7.5 to 8 feet wide and 10 to 14 feet long.
However, some tri-axle toy haulers can feature massive garages up to 20 feet long. Consider your storage needs and the size of the toys or equipment you plan to haul when determining the appropriate garage size for your adventures.
If you are searching for the smallest toy hauler that will fit an RZR, I recommend you watch the video from Travis Adventure Projects below:
Travel Trailer vs. 5th Wheel
Toy haulers are available in both travel trailer and 5th-wheel configurations. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your tow vehicle and its capabilities. 5th-wheel toy haulers generally require a more robust truck due to their weight, especially when fully loaded.
On the other hand, travel trailer toy haulers are suitable for easily loading smaller recreational items like kayaks and bikes. Still, they may have limitations when hauling larger or heavier toys.
Sleeping Capacity
When selecting a toy hauler, it is crucial to ensure enough sleeping space. Evaluate the number of people traveling with you and provide enough sleeping accommodations. Sometimes, you may need to convert seating areas into additional sleeping spaces.
Do not purchase an oversized hauler solely for occasional use by family members or grandkids, as these spaces often go unused and may not truly meet your needs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Pay attention to the GVWR of a toy hauler before making a final decision. The GVWR represents the maximum weight the trailer can handle when fully loaded, including toys, camping gear, and full tanks.
Selecting a toy hauler with a low GVWR may result in weight restrictions, requiring you to leave some toys or supplies behind. Moreover, exceeding the GVWR can lead to suspension issues. It may even void the hauler’s warranty, so choosing a toy hauler that meets your hauling needs is essential for maintaining safety or warranty coverage.
Consider Your Usage
It is important to consider how you plan to use your toy hauler. Think about your travel habits and the frequency of your adventures. If you’re a full-time RVer, your needs will differ from someone who uses their toy hauler for occasional weekend getaways.
Moreover, also take your family structure into account. If your family is expanding or moving to another city, consider the possibility of a larger toy hauler with extra storage.
Conclusion
Owning the best small toy hauler is the perfect solution to elevate your outdoor experiences. A toy hauler provides convenience, comfort, and limitless possibilities with its abundant storage space, flexible cargo capacity, expanded living areas, power capabilities, and outdoor entertainment spaces.
You can easily select the ideal toy hauler to meet your needs by considering a few things: garage size, trailer type, sleeping capacity, GVWR, and usage requirements.
Prepare to hit the roads for unforgettable adventures, bring all your gear, and create lasting memories with the versatility and convenience of owning a small fifth-wheel toy hauler for your next journey.
FAQ’s
What are the typical dimensions and weight of a small toy hauler?
You will find a small toy hauler between 10 and 14 feet long and 7.5 to 8 feet broad. They range in weight from 3,600 pounds to 14,000 pounds, but most are close to 7,600 pounds.
What are the top features and amenities available in small toy haulers?
Small toy haulers offer a living area with dedicated kitchen space that has a sink, stove, and refrigerator. You can also get a dedicated bed area with a TV, an air conditioner, speakers, and fancy lights.
How much storage space is typically available in a small toy hauler?
You can safely transport and store large recreational vehicles, equipment, and other items in small toy carriers ranging in size from 8 to 9 feet. The usual cargo capacity is close to 10,000 pounds.
What are some popular brands or models of small toy haulers in the market?
Popular brands/models of small toy haulers include Forest River XLR Micro Boost, Jayco Octane Super Lite, Keystone Carbon, and Grand Design Momentum G-Class.
