For families eager to explore the great outdoors without the burden of a massive tow vehicle, the options in travel trailers can often feel limiting. Many popular SUVs, crossovers, and even efficient wagons, often capped at a 2,000-pound towing capacity, leave you searching for campers that are feather-light. While tent trailers and teardrops fit the bill, the desire for a hard-sided, comfortable, yet still lightweight travel trailer remains strong. Enter the Encore RV VENŪ, a smartly designed, hard-sided camper that tips the scales at a mere 1,500 pounds, opening up a world of adventure for those with smaller tow vehicles.
Discovering the Encore RV VENŪ: Lightweight Camping Redefined
The RV market is often dominated by behemoths – luxurious, sprawling trailers that require heavy-duty trucks and substantial budgets. But what if your family prioritizes nimble travel and fuel efficiency, or simply owns a vehicle like a Volvo V60 with a 2,000-pound tow rating? The Encore RV VENŪ emerges as an exciting solution, perfectly positioned within the growing segment of lightweight, affordable travel trailers. Unveiled at the 2023 Indiana RV Open House, this compact camper demonstrates that you don’t need a large rig to enjoy comfortable and convenient camping.
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Encore RV, the manufacturer behind the VENŪ, is an Elkhart, Indiana-based company bringing fresh ideas to the RV industry. Founded in 2020 amidst the RV boom, Encore RV is led by Rich Schnippel, a veteran with two decades of experience in the RV and motorsports trailer sectors. His background includes significant roles at ATC Trailers, KZ Recreational Vehicles, and inTech Trailers, known for their innovative designs. Schnippel’s vision for Encore RV is rooted in building durable, long-lasting campers, drawing from his expertise in lightweight adventure trailers similar to the rugged Off-Grid Trailers Pando 2.0.
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Encore RV’s commitment to durability is evident in their construction philosophy. Their initial trailer line, the RŎG, showcased a fully welded, all-aluminum frame and chassis paired with a composite body featuring CNC laser-cut aluminum cabinetry. This focus on robust, lightweight materials carries over into the VENŪ, ensuring a camper built to withstand years of family adventures. From the smaller 1,414-pound RŎG 10MC to the more spacious RŎG 16RB, Encore RV has consistently prioritized lightweight durability, and the VENŪ is the next evolution in this approach.
Inside the VENŪ 10KB: Maximizing Space in a 1500 lb Package
The VENŪ represents a thoughtful refinement of Encore RV’s design principles. While still positioned as an adventure-ready trailer, the VENŪ prioritizes interior comfort and space utilization for its occupants. The first model in this new line, the VENŪ 10KB, is remarkably compact yet surprisingly spacious inside.
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Measuring just 13 feet in total length, with a box length under 10 feet, the VENŪ 10KB is comparable in size to many 13-foot fiberglass campers. However, Encore RV has cleverly maximized the interior dimensions, offering an 8-foot floor length and a comfortable 5 feet, 10 inches of headroom at the highest point. Stepping inside, you’ll find a layout that mirrors larger trailers, efficiently scaled down to this compact footprint. The kitchen area is immediately accessible upon entry, featuring a sink and solid countertop. While a built-in stove isn’t included, the ample counter space easily accommodates portable propane or induction cooktops, allowing for flexible meal preparation.
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For refrigeration, an optional 3.5 cubic-foot 12V refrigerator is available. Alternatively, for those prioritizing self-contained sanitation, a cassette toilet can be specified in place of the refrigerator. Standard features include a MaxxAir fan for ventilation and a 21-gallon freshwater tank, ensuring basic camping necessities are covered.
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The interior bathroom is limited to the cassette toilet option, but outdoor water outputs provide the possibility of an external shower setup for added convenience. The majority of the VENŪ 10KB’s interior is dedicated to a convertible dinette area, transforming into a comfortable bed suitable for two adults. Optional upgrades further enhance the camping experience, including an air conditioner with a heat pump for climate control, a 32-inch television for entertainment, and an off-roading package. The off-road package adds all-terrain tires, an optional roof rack for gear storage, and an awning for outdoor living space.
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A notable design element is the integrated under-counter lighting, casting a soft glow and adding a touch of modern ambiance to the interior, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.
Built for Generations: Durable, Wood-Free Construction
Like other Encore RV trailers, the VENŪ is built upon a foundation of an all-aluminum chassis, complemented by composite walls and a seamless, one-piece fiberglass roof. Encore RV proudly emphasizes the complete absence of wood in their camper construction.
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According to Schnippel, this material choice is deliberate: “We’ve found success by differentiating ourselves and building our products with materials that are engineered to last a lifetime. By eliminating the steel and wood from our construction, we not only take away the possibilities of rust, mold, and rot, but we also are building an RV that can last for multiple generations.” This commitment to longevity and reduced maintenance is a significant advantage for families seeking a reliable and enduring travel trailer.
The VENŪ achieves its remarkable 1,500-pound base weight thanks to this advanced construction. Despite its light weight, it is built with robust 3,500-pound axles, allowing for a substantial cargo capacity of an additional 1,500 pounds for gear, water, and supplies. This combination of lightweight design and ample carrying capacity makes the VENŪ an ideal match for vehicles like the Ford Maverick Hybrid, opening up camping adventures to a broader range of vehicle owners.
The Verdict: Is the 1500 lb Encore RV VENŪ Your Ideal Travel Companion?
The Encore RV VENŪ presents a compelling option for families seeking a genuinely lightweight and comfortable travel trailer. Its 1,500-pound weight makes it accessible to a wide range of smaller SUVs, crossovers, and wagons, eliminating the need for a large, gas-guzzling tow vehicle. The VENŪ 10KB thoughtfully maximizes interior space within its compact dimensions, offering essential amenities and comfortable sleeping for two adults. Encore RV’s dedication to wood-free, durable construction ensures a camper built to last, minimizing maintenance and maximizing peace of mind for years of family adventures.
While pricing details are still forthcoming, the Encore RV VENŪ holds immense promise as a game-changer in the lightweight travel trailer market. For families prioritizing ease of towing, fuel efficiency, and lasting quality in a cozy, hard-sided camper, the VENŪ is definitely worth watching. It represents a significant step forward in providing more accessible and enjoyable camping experiences for a wider audience.
