When planning your next overland adventure, choosing the right camper to pair with your vehicle is essential for both safety and performance. The Toyota Highlander is a versatile midsize SUV, loved for its comfort, reliability, and moderate towing capabilities. But what size camper can a Highlander pull reliably and safely?
This article delves deep into the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander, explores how different trim levels, engine types, and drive configurations affect towing performance, and provides a detailed look at camper types and weights that are compatible with your Highlander. Whether you’re planning on traveling with a teardrop trailer, small travel trailer, or a lightweight fifth wheel, this guide will ensure you choose the right equipment that maximizes both enjoyment and safety.
Towing Capacity of the Toyota Highlander
The towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander varies depending on the generation, engine, trim level, and whether it’s front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Understanding these variables is crucial to determining whether a camper is within your vehicle’s safe pulling range.
First-Generation Highlander (2001–2007)
The initial generations of the Highlander were equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine producing around 215–219 horsepower with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. These older models were not designed with heavy towing in mind, making them better suited for lighter campers or small trailers.
Second-Generation Highlander (2008–2013)
This era saw a performance boost with a 3.5L V6 engine pushing out 270 horsepower, and a significant increase in towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. This makes the second-gen Highlander a more practical option for towing light to mid-weight campers.
Third-Generation Highlander (2014–2019)
Toyota stuck with the 3.5L V6 for this model run while offering front-wheel and optional all-wheel drive, with a max towing capacity still holding at 5,000 lbs. There were minor changes in power outputs across the years but remained largely similar to the second generation.
Fourth-Generation Highlander (2020–2023)
This generation marked a shift, offering a new hybrid powertrain with two engine options: a 3.5L V6 gas engine or a hybrid-powered 2.4L inline-four. The hybrid introduced new fuel efficiency benefits but came with reduced towing capability.
The gas-powered 3.5L V6 Highlander, available in AWD trim only, maintains a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, while the hybrid model’s capacity drops significantly to around 3,500 lbs.
Fifth-Generation Highlander (2024 and newer)
The latest version of the Toyota Highlander continues with the same gas and hybrid powertrains. The standard gas engine is the updated 2.4L turbocharged inline-four generating 265 horsepower and when properly equipped, the gas model can tow up to 5,000 lbs, while the hybrid remains at 3,500 lbs.
Keep in mind that towing packages must be installed for your vehicle to reach its maximum capacity. This includes features like a heavy-duty cooling system, upgraded radiator, and reinforced suspension components.
Understanding Towing Terminology
To effectively determine what size camper your Highlander can pull, it helps to be familiar with a few key terms.
GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
This is the maximum allowable weight of your fully loaded vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel.
GTWR – Gross Trailer Weight
The total allowable weight of a fully loaded trailer or camper. Matching this with your Highlander’s towing capacity is essential.
Tongue Weight
Found on travel trailers, this is the weight that is transferred to the tow vehicle’s hitch point. It typically ranges between 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight.
Curb Weight
Your Highlander’s weight without passengers or cargo. Subtracting this from its GVWR gives you an idea of how much weight it can carry while towing.
Towing Capacity
The maximum amount of weight your Highlander can safely pull. Exceeding this can lead to brake failure, transmission overheating, and loss of control.
Camper Types and Weights
Now that we understand the Highlander’s towing capabilities, let’s look at camper types, including average weights, and whether they fall within the tow rating limits of the various Highlander models.
Teardrop Trailers
Teardrop trailers are among the lightest and most aerodynamic campers on the road. They’re ideal for a Toyota Highlander hybrid or a lower-capacity 2001–2007 model.
- Weight: 1,000–2,500 lbs
- Length: 10–15 feet
- Usable sleeping space with a compact kitchen
Teardrop campers are generally well within the capacity of all Highlander models, especially if loaded with camping gear and a full tank of water.
Limited to Mid-Size Travel Trailers
For those wanting more space and storage, travel trailers provide added comfort and amenities. However, they vary greatly in weight depending on their length and features.
| Trailer Size | Average Weight | Compatible with Highlander? |
|---|---|---|
| 16–18 ft | 2,800–3,800 lbs | Yes with most models, hybrid included |
| 19–22 ft | 3,900–4,500 lbs | Yes with gas model, not hybrid |
| 23+ ft | 4,600–6,000+ lbs | No on hybrid; gas model may push limits |
The gas-powered Highlander (3.5L V6 or 2.4L turbo) can safely pull a 19- to 22-foot lightweight travel trailer without strain, provided the total weight does not exceed 5,000 lbs. Over 22 feet, the weight of these trailers can quickly surpass capacity, especially with full tanks and loaded interiors.
Class C Motorhomes
These are the largest campers within the recreational vehicle category and are usually considered too heavy for most SUVs. Class C motorhomes often weigh between 9,000–12,000 lbs, making them completely incompatible with the Highlander.
Folding Campers & Truck Campers
Folding campers (sometimes known as pop-up campers) are another lightweight option, often mounted on pickup trucks. Some models are built as trailers and weigh between 1,500–3,000 lbs, meaning they are compatible with all generations and powertrains of the Toyota Highlander.
Truck campers mounted directly onto a pickup bed might add 3,000–4,000 lbs, which can become a payload issue for pickups but are irrelevant for SUV tow vehicles like the Highlander.
What Size Camper Can a Highlander Pull: Specific Breakdown by Model Year
For 2001–2007 Models (3.0L V6 – up to 3,500 lbs capacity)
These early models were built for families and commuting rather than heavy towing. If you own one of these, you can safely tow campers in the 2,000–3,000 lbs range — ideal for small teardrops, light pop-up trailers, or ultra-lightweight travel trailers.
2008–2019 Models (3.5L V6 – up to 5,000 lbs capacity)
With the 3.5L V6 engine and AWD, this generation of the Highlander remains a popular choice among weekend campers and light adventurers. These models can tow:
- Teardrop trailers
- Lightweight 16–22 ft travel trailers
- Basic folding campers
Consider choosing a travel trailer from brands like Braxton Creek, Coachmen, or Highlander’s own campers, which range in size and weight — from small weekend models to larger, more luxurious ones.
2020–2023 Models (2.4L Turbo / Hybrid)
This generation introduces hybrid variants for the first time — great for fuel efficiency but less capable when it comes to pulling weight. Toyota prioritizes family-friendly technology and fuel economy over towing capabilities in newer models.
If you own a gas-powered 2020 or newer Highlander, your maximum towing capacity is still 5,000 lbs but may require special towing upgrades or packages. The hybrid version caps out at 3,500 lbs, making it only suitable for smaller, lightweight trailers.
2024+ Highlander
With the same engine options as the previous generation, the fifth-generation Highlander maintains consistent capabilities:
- Gas-powered: 265 horsepower, 5,000 lbs towing
- Hybrid-powered: 183 horsepower, 3,500 lbs towing
While Toyota offers optional tow assist features, including Trailer Backup Guides and Trailer Sway Control, the base architecture still limits the hybrid version.
Proper Towing Equipment for Your Highlander
Even if your Highlander has the power to pull your camper, it needs the right accessories to do so safely and efficiently.
Towing Package
A Toyota OEM towing package, which includes:
- Transmission oil cooler
- Rear differential cooler
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- Sturdy hitch assembly
- Class III receiver hitch
This package is essential if you plan on regularly towing within or near the vehicle’s limits. Without it, you risk overheating and long-term damage.
Tire Selection and Pressure
Towing places additional stress on your Highlander’s tires. Ensure your tires are:
- Well-inflated (check owner’s manual for specifications)
- In good condition (no cracks or bulges)
- Consider upgrading to light truck (LT) tires if you frequently tow near capacity
Suspension Upgrades
While the Highlander’s standard suspension is robust, frequent towing, especially over long distances or on poor terrain, can benefit from:
- Adjustable air suspension kits
- Heavy-duty shocks
- Rear sway bar enhancements
These upgrades improve ride stability, reduce swaying, and maintain optimal control.
How Weather and Terrain Affect Towing with a Highlander
Hilly Terrains
When towing in hilly or mountainous areas, your Highlander’s towing performance can be significantly taxed. The hybrid version, in particular, lacks engine torque for sustained climbs under load, potentially causing overheating or stalling.
Gas-powered models fare better on hills, but it’s still recommended to use caution, shift into lower gears, and allow the engine to work efficiently.
Extreme Temperatures
Whether you’re headed into the desert or the Rockies, high ambient temperatures can impact engine efficiency and cooling performance. Always monitor:
- Engine temperature gauge
- Transmission fluid temperature (if instrumented)
- Overall cabin and trailer temperature (for safety and electronics)
Proper cooling and hydration are just as important for your vehicle as they are for your passengers.
Wind Conditions
High winds are particularly challenging for SUVs like the Highlander, especially when towing lightweight trailers that have a large surface area. Use wind deflectors, plan travel timelines, and avoid high-wind zones if possible.
Tips for Safe Towing with Your Highlander
Towing with the Toyota Highlander can be safe, enjoyable, and stress-free if you follow best practices.
Always Stay Below Your Maximum Tow Rating
Just because your Highlander can tow 5,000 lbs doesn’t mean you should operate at that limit regularly. Aim to stay between 80–90% of your max capacity for long-term vehicle health and driving confidence.
Check Your Tongue Weight
Ensure your trailer’s tongue weight is adequate — around 10–15% of the total trailer weight. Too little and the trailer might sway; too much and it can overload your rear suspension.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Within the camper or trailer, avoid storing heavy items at the rear or unevenly on one side. Proper weight management ensures better balance and reduces sway during turns.
Use Trailer Brakes
All trailers over 3,000 lbs should come with electronic or surge brakes. Ensure your brake controller is set up correctly, especially under heavier loads.
Perform Regular Maintenance
A higher-responsibility vehicle like a tow rig requires vigilance. Prioritize regular inspections of:
- Brakes
- Transmission fluid
- Coolant levels
- Tire conditions
- Suspension bushings
Regular maintenance helps your Highlander last through years of fun-filled towing.
Popular Campers the Highlander Can Pull
Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family of four, there are campers that match your Highlander’s capacity without pushing your limits.
1. Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth
- Dry weight: ~1,600 lbs
- Sleeping capacity: 2–3
- Compact with a functional kitchen
- Perfect for hybrid models and older Highlander variants
2. Airstream Bambi
- Weight range: 2,500–4,000 lbs
- Length: 16–20 ft
- Lightweight but functional with Airstream luxury
- Gas-powered Highlander can handle comfortably
3. Coachmen Clipper Ultralite
- Dry weight: ~3,100 lbs
- Length: ~19 ft
- Great layout options, indoor kitchen, and bathroom
- Towable with all but the hybrid Highlander
4. Braxton Creek Banshee
- Weight: ~4,200 lbs
- Length: ~22 ft
- Full amenities including a convertible dinette and A/C
- On the edge of what the standard gas Highlander can tow
5. Four Wheel Camper (Folding Roof Style)
- Weight: ~2,600 lbs
- Sets up like a rooftop tent trailer
- Aerodynamic and easy to maneuver
- Compatible with all models
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Camper for Your Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is capable of pulling a wide range of campers — but only if selected wisely. Model year, engine type, and drive configuration all influence your effective towing limit.
For the gas-powered Highlander, campers in the 4,000 to 5,000 lbs are within reach, meaning mid-sized travel trailers and basic campers fit well. For hybrid or older FWD models, sticking to campers under 3,500 lbs is the safest and most practical.
Always stay within your limits, invest in a complete towing package, and maintain your vehicle regularly. The result will be a mobile adventure tailored to your family’s needs — while ensuring safety, comfort, and longevity for your beloved Toyota Highlander.
Whether you’re hitting the road for a family road trip, remote cabin getaway, or weekend at a lakeside park, pairing the right trailer or camper with your Highlander sets the stage for unforgettable memories. So go ahead, plan your adventure, pack the bags, and enjoy every mile on the road — your Highlander is ready for some trail-blazing fun.
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander?
The maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander largely depends on the engine and drivetrain configuration. For the 2023 model year, the standard 2.4L inline-four hybrid engine equipped in certain trims allows a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. However, higher trims featuring the 2.4L turbocharged inline-four engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with a towing package. It’s essential to verify your specific model and trim’s capabilities before attempting to tow anything.
This capacity places the Highlander in the mid-range for family SUVs and makes it suitable for smaller campers such as teardrop trailers, smaller travel trailers, and some pop-up campers. For those considering heavier trailers, it’s recommended to look into alternative vehicles with higher towing limits. Always ensure that trailer weight, including all cargo, fluids, and additional equipment, falls within the vehicle’s specified limits to avoid mechanical stress and maintain driving safety.
Can a Toyota Highlander tow a travel trailer or camper?
Yes, a Toyota Highlander is capable of towing a lightweight travel trailer or camper, provided that the trailer falls within the Highlander’s maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Smaller travel trailers and campers that are designed to be lightweight and easily towable are particularly well-suited for the Highlander. It’s crucial to factor in the trailer’s fully loaded weight, as additional gear, water, and propane can significantly increase the trailer’s weight beyond its dry weight.
While most entry-level and mid-sized campers should work with a properly equipped Highlander, potential tow-ers should also take into account the vehicle’s stability and handling when towing. Using weight-distributing hitches, sway controls, and properly maintaining the vehicle can enhance the towing experience. Additionally, the driving conditions — including terrain and weather — should be considered before hitching up a travel trailer.
What size camper can a Highlander safely pull?
A Toyota Highlander can safely pull a camper or trailer that weighs between 1,500 and 5,000 pounds when equipped with the appropriate engine and towing package. This means that the vehicle is best suited for small to mid-sized campers such as teardrop trailers, ultralight travel trailers, and small fifth wheels. To ensure safe towing, the camper’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) should not exceed the maximum towing capacity of your specific Highlander trim.
The physical size is also a factor. A camper that’s under 25 feet in length is ideal for maintaining good visibility and maneuvering capability while towing. Towing heavier or longer campers can compromise vehicle control and fuel efficiency, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain. Always ensure that the Highlander’s total loaded weight, when combined with the camper, doesn’t exceed its Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
Do I need a towing package for my Highlander to pull a camper?
Yes, to safely and effectively tow a camper with a Toyota Highlander, it’s highly recommended to have a towing package installed. While the Highlander comes with a factory-installed hitch receiver on some trims, the essential components — such as a heavy-duty radiator, trailer towing wiring harness, and upgraded suspension — are often included in the towing package. These features help enhance engine cooling and overall towing performance while reducing the risk of overheating or stress on components.
Without a towing package, the Highlander may be able to tow very light campers or trailers under 1,500 pounds, but doing so could lead to premature wear on your vehicle’s drivetrain and reduce safety margins. The towing package optimizes your Highlander for the added strain of pulling a trailer and offers peace of mind for repeated or long-distance towing. It’s advisable to install the package at the time of purchase or soon after, as retrofitting can be more expensive.
What are the best campers to pair with a Highlander?
The best campers to pair with a Toyota Highlander are lightweight models with dry weights below 5,000 pounds. Teardrop trailers, such as those made by Taxa Outdoors or SylvanSport GO camping trailers, are ideal because they offer compact size and ease of use while maintaining a low weight. These trailers also tend to have aerodynamic designs, which improve fuel efficiency and reduce drag on the SUV during towing.
For drivers seeking full-featured travel trailers, models like the Forest River Flagstaff or Jayco Jay Feather are known for being lightweight and well-constructed, making them a great match for the Highlander. These campers offer sleeping, kitchen, and bathroom facilities without being too heavy. Buyers should always confirm that their chosen camper’s loaded weight falls within the towing limits of their particular Highlander model and consider test-towing it before committing to a trailer.
How does towing affect the Highlander’s fuel efficiency?
Towing a trailer with a Toyota Highlander will have a noticeable impact on fuel efficiency, depending on the weight of the trailer, driving conditions, and terrain. With its hybrid engine configuration, some models can maintain improved fuel economy when not towing, but once pulling a camper, you can expect a significant decrease. On average, towing a camper can reduce fuel economy by 1 to 3 miles per gallon, depending on these variables.
Wind resistance, speed, and driving style also play a role in how much fuel efficiency is affected. For example, towing at higher speeds or through hilly areas consistently decreases efficiency further, while maintaining steady speeds and using cruise control when appropriate can help. Ultimately, planning ahead with fuel stops and managing driving habits can help mitigate some of these losses. For many drivers, the flexibility of using the Highlander for both daily driving and camping adventures makes the trade-off worthwhile.
What should I consider before choosing a camper for my Highlander?
Before selecting a camper for your Toyota Highlander, the two most important considerations are the camper’s weight and the SUV’s towing capacity. You must ensure that the camper’s dry weight plus any fluids, gear, and supplies falls within the 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. Understanding the specifications such as Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is also crucial to ensure safety and longevity of the vehicle.
Additionally, consider how often and for how long you plan to tow the camper, the routes you’ll be taking, and the terrain you’ll be driving through. Factors like mountain roads, frequent stop-and-go driving, or coastal wind conditions can influence the driving experience and determine the ideal camper size for your Highlander. Lastly, don’t overlook the ease of backing up, parking, and storage — larger campers can complicate these routines. A balanced assessment of all these aspects ensures both safety and enjoyment.