What size camper can a Chevy Trailblazer pull?
In short, a Chevy Trailblazer can tow up to about 3,500 pounds when equipped with the 1.3-liter turbo engine and the Trailering Package. With the smaller 1.2-liter turbo, the towing limit is typically lower, around 1,500–2,000 pounds. These figures can vary by model year, drivetrain, and optional equipment, so always verify the exact rating for your vehicle.
To understand what this means in practice, it helps to know how towing capacity is determined and what factors influence it. The Trailblazer’s official tow rating depends on engine choice, whether the Trailering Package is installed, drivetrain configuration, and the vehicle’s payload capacity. Beyond the number itself, buyers should consider tongue weight, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and gross combined weight rating (GCWR) to avoid overloading the vehicle or trailer.
Engine options and towing ratings
The following breakdown reflects typical maximums for recent Trailblazer builds and highlights how engine choice affects tow capacity.
- 1.2L Turbo engine: Up to about 1,500–2,000 pounds of towing capacity, depending on configuration and equipment.
- 1.3L Turbo engine with Trailering Package: Up to about 3,500 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped.
The 3,500-pound figure generally applies to models with the available Trailering Package, which includes features such as a strengthened cooling system and integrated trailer controls. Always confirm the exact rating for your year and trim in the owner's manual or with a dealer.
What campers fit within the Trailblazer’s towing envelope
If you’re planning to tow a camper, the practical limit most people encounter with a Trailblazer centers on trailers with a GVWR of 3,500 pounds or less. This helps ensure you stay within the vehicle’s payload and towing limits while allowing some margin for passengers, gear, and fuel. The following camper types are commonly considered within that range.
- Teardrop trailers and small pop-up campers typically fall well under 3,500 pounds GVWR, making them common first choices for Trailblazer owners.
- Ultra-light travel trailers and compact hybrid models often fit within the 2,000–3,500 pound range, depending on their build and options.
- Hard-sided campers designed for light towing can also work if their GVWR stays at or below the 3,500-pound limit.
Note: Always verify the trailer’s GVWR and tongue weight, and compare these against the Trailblazer’s payload rating and GCWR. Tongue weight should typically be about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight, and your payload must cover passengers, cargo, hitch, and any accessories.
Practical steps before towing a camper with a Trailblazer
Before hitting the road, follow these checks to tow safely and within limits:
- Confirm the exact towing capacity for your model year, engine, drivetrain, and whether the Trailering Package is installed.
- Calculate payload: subtract curb weight from GVWR to determine how much cargo you can carry inside the SUV.
- Calculate tongue weight: aim for about 10–15% of the trailer’s GVWR to place the right load on the hitch.
- Use the correct hitch, weight-distributing setup if recommended, and a trailer brake controller for heavier loads.
- Test tow in a safe area to practice braking, turning, and backing with the trailer attached.
Following these guidelines helps ensure you stay within the Trailblazer’s limits and tow safely and reliably.
Summary
Summary: For most Trailblazer models, the practical upper limit for towing a camper is about 3,500 pounds when equipped with the 1.3L turbo engine and the Trailering Package. The smaller 1.2L turbo is generally limited to roughly 1,500–2,000 pounds. When planning a tow, verify the exact ratings for your year and trim, account for payload and tongue weight, and choose trailers with a GVWR at or below the 3,500-pound ceiling. With careful planning and proper equipment, a Trailblazer can tow a range of lightweight campers, including teardrops, ultralight trailers, and compact pop-ups.
