You can expect an average airstream travel trailer weight to be about 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) for a 23-foot trailer.
When looking at the specs for different airstreams, the weight will be listed as GVWR weight. GVWR or gross vehicle weight rating refers to the maximum loaded weight that the trailer can hold.
For pulling an airstream, it’s recommended to use a vehicle (truck or SUV) that can tow at least 3,500 pounds. This would be for towing the smallest airstream travel trailer. Of course, you’ll need a bit more torque and towing power if you plan on towing one that’s longer and on the heavier range.
Make sure to check your vehicle’s towing capacity. This can be found in your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website as your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
8 Example Airstream Weights
The following chart features example airstream weights of specific models ranging from the lightest to heaviest used on the road. Additional details can be found on the manufacturer’s website. Here’s the airstream weight chart:
Airstream Model | GVWR |
Basecamp 16 | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
Nest by Airstream 16FB | 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) |
Bambi 19CB | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
Caravel 20FB | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
Flying Cloud 23CB | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
International Serenity 25FB | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
Globetrotter 30RB | 8,800 lbs (3,992 kg) |
Classic 30RB | 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg) |
Source: Airstream
Additional Weight and Trailer Options
The additional weight you will encounter with an Airstream will come from a few areas. Those areas being storage, add-ons, sleeping capacity, and gas (wet weight). These areas all create additional weight to consider when towing and traveling with your travel trailer.
Make sure to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual and read the section on towing capacity. It’s always safer to leave some extra wiggle room to not damage your engine.
To Conclude
Contrary to popular belief, Airstreams are not incredibly light compared to other travel trailers on the market. Much of this misconception comes from the name with “air” as many believe it to mean they’re more lightweight. Instead, it’s better to associate this with their build quality and unique design versus their weight.
Airstream travel trailers provide a great camper for camping, whether that’s at a national park or campground. Each make, model, and size comes along with its own weight based on use and if any mods are installed. The key factors to consider the weight of an Airstream come down to:
- Length
- Interior
- What’s stored inside
- Fuel tank/gas propane
It’s important to know the correct weight when looking to tow and transport your Airstream. If you’re unsure and want specific weights, you can always check the manufacturer’s website or go to a local cat scale to get a more accurate weight.