Written by: Greg Long
Last Update: 07/01/2025
If you’ve been trying to find a small camper that’s actually usable — not just a bed on wheels — the R-Pod 153 might be worth a look.
It’s short and light enough to tow with an SUV, but still gives you a real bathroom, a place to sit, and some breathing room. Forest River approached this floor plan differently than most small camper designs, and it shows.
We’ll walk through what it does well, where it might fall short, and help you figure out if it’s the one you’d want to take off-grid — or just out for the weekend.
Watch Josh the RV Nerd’s video review of the R-Pod 153 and see it inside and out!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What Makes the Forest River R-Pod 153 Unique?
Forest River R-Pod 153 Specs and Dimensions
What Does the Forest River R-Pod 153 Cost?
Interior Features of the Forest River R-Pod 153
Exterior Features of the Forest River R-Pod 153
Is the Forest River R-Pod 153 Easy to Tow?
Is the Forest River R-Pod 153 a Good Fit for You?
Want to See the Floor Plan and Price of a R-Pod 153?
What Makes the Forest River R-Pod 153 Unique?
Plenty of space to sit, sleep, cook, and relax — everything you need inside a 17-foot camper.
The R-Pod 153 is one of the smallest travel trailers in Forest River’s R-Pod lineup—designed for campers who want full-function living in a compact, easy-to-tow package.
What sets it apart is how it uses that small footprint. Instead of squeezing in a basic bed and calling it good, the 153 gives you:
- A full dry bath (not a wet bath or split bath)
- A convertible front Murphy bed/dinette setup
- A separate sofa for lounging
- A slide-out kitchen to free up floor space
- Solar and tankless water heater—standard!
The layout feels more like a cross between a truck camper and a tiny home than a typical small trailer. You can sit, sleep, cook, and clean up without stepping on each other or sacrificing the essentials.
If you’ve looked at other trailers in this size range and felt like they were missing something, the 153 was built to fill in those gaps.
Forest River made use of every inch — drawers, cabinets, and hidden storage throughout the interior.
Forest River R-Pod 153 Specs and Dimensions
R-Pod 153 Layout: Front Murphy bed, center sofa, rear entry, and a full dry bath — all in a 17’3″ floor plan.
R-Pod 153 Specs and Dimensions
Here’s a quick look at the key specs and dimensions of the Forest River R-Pod 153 travel trailer. These numbers can help you decide if it fits your tow vehicle, campsite, and how you like to travel.
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Exterior Length | 17′ 3″ |
| Exterior Width | 8′ |
| Exterior Height | 9′ 1″ |
| Hitch Weight | 290 lbs* |
| Dry Weight | 3,024 lbs* |
| GVWR (Max Weight) | 4,524 lbs* |
| Max Cargo Capacity | 1,500 lbs |
| Fresh Water Tank | 30 gal |
| Gray Water Tank | 30 gal |
| Black Water Tank | 30 gal |
| Solar Power | 200W factory-installed panel |
What Does the Forest River R-Pod 153 Cost?
The MSRP for the Forest River R-Pod 153 is set at $32,473.
This is the manufacturer’s suggested price — but most shoppers end up paying less.
Actual sale prices vary by location, dealer, and time of year.
At Bish’s RV, we price each camper individually, though advertising rules sometimes limit what we can post online.
In many cases, you’ll find the R-Pod 153 listed for well under MSRP—so it’s worth checking to see what’s available near you.
(Spoiler: Most shoppers looking for the best deal start by checking Bishs.com first.)
Typical Price Range for the R-Pod 153:
Based on what we’ve seen across the industry, the R-Pod 153 will most likely show up at RV dealers in the $23,500 to $29,500 price range — depending on location, options, and availability.
Can I Pre-Order a Forest River R-Pod 153 and Save Money?
Yes. Pre-ordering your R-Pod 153 through Bish’s RV lets you skip the wait and get the exact features you want — without paying for options you don’t need.
By ordering through us, you get a factory-built RV customized to your specs, which can often cost less than buying one off the lot.
And it’s not just R-Pods — with 22+ locations nationwide, we can help you custom-order nearly any RV on the market.
Not near a Bish’s RV? No problem. In many cases, we can arrange delivery so your new RV gets to you — wherever you are.
Let us help you get the right RV, your way — and maybe save while you’re at it.
What Are the Interior Features of the Forest River R-Pod 153?
The R-Pod 153 gives you a full dry bath, a Murphy bed with a front dinette, and a separate sofa—all inside a 17-foot trailer. It’s designed to stay small on the outside while still giving you a usable, comfortable space inside.
The front Murphy bed folds over a compact dinette, so you can eat or work during the day and sleep at night without constantly setting things up. The sofa on the campsite side adds a second seating (or sleeping) area, and the slide-out kitchen keeps the main walkway open.
There’s a full dry bathroom in the rear corner with a locking door, a real shower, and a dedicated sink.
You’ll also find more storage than you might expect, with cubbies, netting, overhead cabinets, and a spot to stash gear under the sofa.
R-Pod 153 Key Interior Features:
- A 12V compressor fridge with a separate freezer
- A two-burner high-output cooktop
- 3-in-1 convection microwave, oven, and air fryer
- Pivoting smart TV you can watch from bed or sofa
- Central vacuum with a floor-level dustpan
- Hardwood sink cover for extra counter space
- Soft-close drawers and pocket-screwed cabinetry
It’s not a huge trailer, but it doesn’t feel cramped—and it’s got more everyday function than a lot of bigger campers.
Josh the RV Nerd shows the R-Pod 153’s toilet has elbow room and its shower has plenty of headroom.
What Are the Exterior Features of the Forest River R-Pod 153?
The outside of the R-Pod 153 includes a power awning, solar panel, tankless water heater, and an outdoor gear-friendly rear entry door. It’s simple, but not minimalist— and built with towing and campsite usability in mind.
You get four stabilizer jacks (not always a given in small trailers), an 8′ power awning with LED lighting, and a wide rear door that makes loading bikes, totes, or even a kayak easy.
The 200W solar panel and tankless water heater both come standard, so you’re off-grid-ready right from the start.
It’s not overbuilt, but it’s thoughtfully equipped for the kind of camping most people actually do.
R-Pod 153 Key Exterior Features:
- 8′ power awning with LED light strip
- 200W factory-installed solar panel
- 60,000 BTU tankless on-demand water heater
- Rear gear-loading door
- Four-corner stabilizer jacks
- Goodyear Endurance radial tires (most units)
- Outdoor propane hookup for a griddle or grill
- Ladder prep and fully walkable roof
- Euro-style front windshield with shade and bug screen
It’s not trying to be a toy hauler or an overland beast — but for weekenders and road-trippers, it’s got what you need to stay comfortable and mobile.
Already have a camper but considering trading it in for an R-Pod?
Find out what your current camper is worth.
Insider Tip: Learn how the value of your used camper is determined by RV dealers.
Sound Clip: R-Pod 153 Pros & Cons
Jump to Sound Clip Transcript ↓
How Easy Is the Forest River R-Pod 153 to Tow?
The R-Pod 153 is light enough for many SUVs and midsize trucks, with a dry weight just under 3,000 lbs and a total length of 17′ 3″.
While it’s compact front to back, the full 8-foot width gives it a stable footprint on the road and more usable space inside. It tows smaller than it looks, but feels more like a full-featured camper once you’re parked.
That said, it’s important to look beyond the dry weight. The GVWR (fully loaded weight) is 4,524 lbs, which means some smaller vehicles — like a Ford Maverick — might be pushing their limits.
If you’re sticking to flat highways, you’ll have more flexibility. If you’re heading into hills or mountains, a little more tow capacity is a smart move.
Towing & Safety Highlights:
- Dry weight: 3,024 lbs
- GVWR: 4,524 lbs
- Hitch weight: ~290 lbs
- Shorter length makes is easier to maneuver and park
- 8′ wide axle for added stability
- Fits many tow-package SUVs and midsize pickups
It tows like a small trailer but doesn’t feel bare-bones when you park it.
Towing Tips for the R-Pod 153
With a GVWR of 4,825 lbs and a dry weight overr 3,000 lbs, the R-Pod 153 is a good match for many midsize trucks and properly equipped SUVs.
For the best towing experience — especially on highways or in hilly terrain — it’s smart to use a factory tow package, a brake controller, and a weight distribution hitch.
See Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer Pricing and Availability:
Is the R-Pod 153 a Good Fit for You?
This camper isn’t built for everyone — and that’s a good thing. Here’s a quick look at who the R-Pod 153 is designed for, and who might want to look at a different model.
The R-Pod 153 Is a Good Fit If You:
- Want a small trailer with a real bathroom and separate sitting/sleeping areas
- Need something light enough for many SUVs or midsize trucks
- Usually camp solo or as a couple and don’t need a private bedroom
It Might Not Be the Best Fit If You:
- Regularly travel with more than two people or need bunk space
- Want a full walk-around bed or separate sleeping area
- Plan to boondock for long stretches and need large tanks or extra storage
Final Thoughts on the Forest River R-Pod 153 Travel Trailer
The R-Pod 153 proves you don’t need a big trailer to have a comfortable, feature-packed camping experience.
It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to tow — but still gives you a real bathroom, lots of flexible sleeping spaces, and smart storage options throughout.
At Bish’s RV, we’ve been selling R-Pods since they first hit the market back in 2008, and we still love helping people find the right camper for their adventures.
Whether you’re brand new to RVing or just looking to downsize, the 153 is definitely worth a look.
Not Sure if the 153 Fits Your Needs?
Chat with a Bish’s RV Outfitter — we’re here to help you figure it out, no pressure.
Next Steps to Owning a Forest River R-Pod 153:
Order and Save!
The 2026 R-Pod 126 is set to arrive on dealer lots in the next few months. If you already know what you want, placing a custom order now lets you skip the search and get the exact options you’re looking for—no compromises, no lot-hopping.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Forest River R-Pod 153
Is the Forest River R-Pod 153 SUV towable?
Yes, in many cases. With a dry weight under 3,000 lbs, the 153 can be towed by several midsize SUVs and pickups. Just make sure your vehicle’s GVWR rating (not just dry weight) is a good match—especially if you plan to load it up or tow through mountains.
Does the R-Pod 153 have a bathroom?
Yes. It has a full, enclosed dry bath with a shower, toilet, sink, and a locking door. No curtain, no split-bath setup.
What size is the bed in the R-Pod 153?
It’s a Murphy bed that folds over the dinette and is close to a short queen in size. It’s a great setup for one or two people—and it can be left folded up if you’re using the dinette instead.
How many people can the R-Pod 153 sleep?
Two comfortably. Three in a pinch. The front Murphy bed and the separate sofa can both be used for sleeping, but space is limited.
Does it come with solar?
Yes. A 200-watt factory-installed solar panel is standard, along with a charge controller.
How long is the Forest River R-Pod 153?
17 feet, 3 inches from tongue to bumper.
What kind of water heater does it have?
It comes with a 60,000 BTU tankless, on-demand water heater—so you don’t have to wait for hot water.
Transcript: R-Pod 153 Pros & Cons (Sound Clip)
“The Forest River R-Pod 153 is a small camper that punches above its weight. It’s just over 17 feet long, but somehow still fits a full bathroom, a Murphy bed with a dinette underneath, a sofa, and solar on the roof.“
“The good stuff? It’s easy to tow, fits in tight spots, and gives you a lot more function than most trailers this size. You’ve actually got room to sit, eat, and sleep without feeling like you’re stuck in a closet.“
“What to watch for? Storage isn’t huge, and the bed isn’t walkaround, so getting in and out might take a little scoot. And while it’s light, fully loaded it’s not featherweight—so check your tow ratings before you hook up.“
“Overall, if you want something simple, smart, and easy to take out for the weekend, the 153 is a solid pick.“
Looking for a Small Camper?
Check out our Article: Top 5 SUV-Towable Campers
Written by:
Greg Long
Bish’s RV Content Manager
With over 10 years in the RV industry, Greg combines firsthand dealership experience with a passion for helping people find the right RV for their adventures. He’s walked thousands of campers, talked with real buyers, and believes the best RV advice should be clear, honest, and fun.
Amateur adventurer; professional dreamer.
aka: The Bish-Blog-Guy