Chrysler Pacifica + 1 adult/2 kids

[Noemi]

We just started tent camping, but being in Houston, Tx the weather is just so unpredicable, that I'm wondering that it might be worth investing in a Pop-up or a fiberglass RV.

I found this website on RV.net and was amazed to discover this option.

My Pacifica has a 3,500 lbs towing max.

Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[Brian B-P]

The 3500 lb capacity makes the majority of lightweight moulded fiberglass travel trailers possible candidates.

Even the very common "small" size of various brands, with a 13' overall length, commonly has a larger bed (made from the dinette) and a sofa with bunk above it, so there would be suitable sleeping spaces. The larger common size, typically 16' to 17' overall length, can allow for more facilities (such as a bathroom) while still retaining enough beds. The Pacifica is similar to most minivans in towing capability, and many of us tow 16' or 17' trailers with our minivans.

One caution: you may not be able to tow the entire 3500 lb maximum trailer in combination with the three occupants and luggage in the Pacifica. Finding the real trailer limit requires a closer examination of the several weight limits involved.

[Frederick L. Simson]

My Pacifica has a 3,500 lbs towing max.

You may not be able to tow the entire 3500 lb maximum trailer in combination with the three occupants and luggage in the Pacifica. [b]Finding the real trailer limit requires a closer examination of the several weight limits involved.

Figuring out just what you can tow is sometimes like trying to figure out what a computer is actually going to cost.
In-store rebates, mail in rebates, taxes charged on the full price...
Likewise, when towing a trailer, figuring the required equipment to meet the maximum, and what you can carry in the car without overloading it can be confusing.
My Honda Odyssey has a similar tow rating to your Chrysler Pacifica.

<div align="center">ODYSSEY 2003 Owner's Manual

[b]Towing Equipment and Accessories
Weight Distributing Hitch
If the total trailer weight is more than 1,850 Lbs (840 Kg), you must also use a weight distributing hitch. This device transfers weight from the vehicle's rear wheels to the front wheels, and to the trailer's wheels. Carefully follow the hitch maker's instructions for proper installation and adjustment.
[b]Sway Control
If the total trailer weight exceeds 2,000 Lbs (900 Kg), you should install a sway control device to minimize swaying that can occur in crosswinds and in normal and emergency driving maneuvers. Your trailer maker can tell you what kind of sway control you need and how to install it.
[b]Trailer Brakes
Honda recommends that any trailer having a total weight of 1,000 Lbs (450 Kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.
[b]Total trailer weight:
The maximum weight you can tow depends on several factors. See chart below for limits for your towing situation. Towing a load that is too heavy can seriously affect your handling and performance.
[b]Tongue Load:
The weight that the tongue of a fully loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be approximately 10 percent of the trailer weight. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway. Too much tongue load reduces front-tire traction and steering control.
[b]Maximum Total Trailer Weight:
Number of Occupants-----------------------------------[b]Equipped with transmission cooler
Including Driver*-----------------------------------------[b]and power steering fluid cooler
-----2-------------------------------------------------------------3,500 Lbs (1,580 Kg)
-----3-------------------------------------------------------------3,350 Lbs (1,520 Kg)
-----4-------------------------------------------------------------3,200 Lbs (1,450 Kg)
-----5-------------------------------------------------------------3,050 Lbs (1,380 Kg)
-----6-------------------------------------------------------------2,900 Lbs (1,310 Kg)
-----7---------------------------------------------------------------650 Lbs (295 Kg)**
*Based on 150 Lbs (70 Kg) per occupant
**Weight limited to avoid exceeding rear GAWR
[b]Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load is:
5,665 Lbs (2,570 Kg)
[b]Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The maximum allowable weights on the vehicle axles are:
2,833 Lbs (1,285 Kg) on the front axle, and
2,845 Lbs (1,290 Kg) on the rear axle.
[b]Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer is:
8,265 Lbs (3,750 Kg) with the proper hitch and fluid coolers.[/quote]
To achieve the 3,500 Lb maximum, I have to install ALL of the recommended equipment.
With 3 occupants in the car, the maximum tow rating drops from 3,500 Lbs to 3,350 Lbs even with all of that equipment.