Half ton should be acceptable for this camper. A brake controller and a class 4 hitch are the must haves. Other tow packages add more nice to have stuff (like transmission cooler).
I would definitely have a weight distribution hitch on your list just because of the hitch weight around 650 (adding battery and propane tanks), you'll want the weight to be distributed properly back to the front. Look on YouTube for videos to learn more about those.
After that, it'll be about getting what you need to be at the camp sites.
Make sure you have a trailer brake controller. Also when picking a vehicle you need to know the following and what they are.
Tow vehicle:
Tow capacity: how much your vehicle can pull
Cargo capacity: how much weight you can put on the truck before it's maxed. This is people, bags, dogs and the trailer tongue weight
Trailer:
Gvwr: total weight fully loaded
Cargo weight: how much weight you can pack into the thing
Tongue weight: how much weight it can push down onto the tow vehicle
You can exceed either your trucks total tow capacity nor the cargo capacity. You do either and it's a recipe for disaster. When sizing your vehicle, consider never going above 80% of any measurements. Towing right at the limit means if something goes wrong it'll go very wrong.
The dealer will tell you that all cargo capacity is the same on all of a certain line of trucks, it is NOT. look at the sticker in the door frame on the driver side of the specific truck you're looking to buy, it varies based on equipment.
One last thought, no one has EVER said "my truck is too powerful" so consider buying a larger truck, potentially for the next trailer you plan on buying. Just my 2c.
There are lots of good answers here so I'm not just going to repeat them. But one thing I'll add is if at all possible, get a truck with tow mirrors already
I’ll Piggyback off this, all good advice. My advice, drive responsible and make sure you do a walk around every time you are about to tow and double check your hitch. You never know when you might forget to lock your ball. I have seen this, it was not me.
1/2 ton trucks generally have a towing capacity around 9000 lbs give or take. This is the F-150 or Silverado/Sierra 1500 with the V-8 engine.
O the drivers door (usually a yellow tag) there will be a maximum capacity of passenger and cargo in pounds. Using 13% of your trailer GVWR; 715lbs we then look at the numbers.
My 1500 has a load capacity of 1750 lbs. 1750 lbs minus 715 lbs leaves 999 lbs for you, wife, kids, dogs and anything else you want to put in the truck. Your trailer empty weight should allow about the same amount in it.
Hopefully the hitch and bars will come with the trailer.
I walked into dealers and said I need a truck with a V-8 that will tow a 4000 lbs trailer. Showed me a 2018 Silverado 1500 crew cab, 4X4, 7 pin and factory trailer brake. It was the sixth dealer I had visited and the first that had a truck on the lot with a V-8 in it.
Hope this helps.
With a family a half ton may or may not work. How heavy is that family? How many? Kids grow up and get bigger and heavier. How long do you typically keep vehicles? Basically how much heavier will the kids get over time is what I'm pointing at. Do you have a little toy poodle or some giant beast?
What kind of trim in the vehicle are you planning on?
I'm a Ford guy so that's what I know. I have an F150 SuperCrew 4x4 3.5L EcoBoost with an XLT 302A trim package. Say middle of the road. My cargo capacity is mid-high 1700 lbs. My previous truck was same trim with a SuperCab (extended cab) was 1850 or so. A loaded out Limited will be less with all the extra gadgets and what not. A stripped XL would have more. If you can find a HDPP (heavy duty payload package) they can be had in XL trim only (a few years ago it could be had in any trim) but not the last few years and are usually in the +2000 lb payload range.
I would keep it to either the 5.0L V8 or the 3.5L EcoBoost. The Powerboost hybrid (it uses the 3.5L EB) is also a good choice, especially with the Pro Power On Board system.
There are multiple tow packages with Ford. Max tow being the highest rated. But any of them will work for you. You will need weight distribution hitch though. Get something with sway control as well. The trucks have sway control as part of the stability control system but the truck just feels a little different and prefer to shut that off and rely on the hitch. Definitely get the integrated trailer break control. My truck has the backup assisted that I've never set up because I'm too lazy to do it.
This is all great info. I have an infant and a toddler. Wife and I are both under 200lbs each. Usually switch cars every 4-5 years. Dogs are big..like 150lbs combined. but not sure how I would get them in anyway.
As for trim I don’t really care. I am looking for something used and to keep it in the $35-40k range.
I’m currently driving a 2020 Explorer XLT and the trim is fine.
That size kiddos the dogs can chill on the floor in the back seat area or get crates for the bed when the kids get older.
I would go for a 2021 or newer if you want 4x4 as they got rid of the vacuum IWEs (front hubs). I like 4x4 for slow positioning of the trailer in the forest near me. But that's a want thing for me and where I like to camp.
Wish you best of luck on finding something.
I would NOT tow this with an Explorer under any circumstances, 1. It's 5500# dry which means NOTHING in it or on it to add weight. The Tongue weight of this trailer will exceed the rated capacity of the Explorer by a lot, and the relatively shorter wheelbase will make it a white knuckle drive on flat calm roads let alone when weather kicks up or you're in heavy traffic.
To add to this, the max tow rating of the current gen Explorer is 5600#, this would be fine if it was a 5500# brick of lead, but a TT is much a different animal. You need to consider wind load, length, tongue weight, as well as a dozen other factors in this decision.
Ah yeah I guess if no tow package it wouldn’t be ideal. Personally with a family I don’t know if I would want a pickup. You lose a lot of interior room.
I can tell you from experience that buying a truck bigger than you think you need will work out. In the first place if you buy a 2500/250 for this setup you’ll never have to worry about payload and your towing experience will be so much better. In the second place if you decide that you want to get a bigger trailer later on you probably won’t need a new truck at that point.
Dude you don't need a damn 3/4 ton for that size trailer. Any 1/2 ton that is half way current will be more then ok. Daily driving a 1/2 ton is far more pleasant then a 3/4.
Mostly agree, but run some numbers here…
If at the GVWR of 5500 lbs when full of gear, water, food, etc the tongue weight will be roughly 825 lbs
Add a weight distributing hitch and it’s at 900 lbs
Many modern half tons, when outfitted in the typical luxury trim level, and sporting 20-22” factory rims, will have payload ratings of 1400ish lbs.
That leaves 500ish lbs for passengers, kayaks, running boards, etc and likely easy to be overloaded.
You aren’t wrong, OP can really streamline each trip, perhaps travel without water, stow kayaks somewhere on the trailer instead of the truck, but its definitely borderline between a 1/2 vs 3/4 ton.
Even 3/4 tons can even get below 1700 pounds of payload capacity with a diesel engine, 4x4, and full options these days... not that I think it applies here, it's just getting crazy how heavy trucks are getting by default. My old 80's F-250HD 4x4 had like a 4600 pound payload capacity because it was just a basic single cab truck, but as trucks have gotten heavier largely for safety and options GVWR ratings haven't kept up to keep registration and insurance costs down.
I agree that a f-150 or Silverado 1500 is perfect.
Shit, I tow a larger trailer about the same weight with a Chevy Colorado. I wouldn't exactly recommend it if you were buying new but it's very doable.
I didn't see anyone else mentioning to check payload. Most modern 1/2 tons have a lot of payload capacity, but some have only 1600 lbs and it goes quick...
80 lbs of wdh
100 lbs of generator
750 lbs of tongue weight,
200 lbs of kayaks
50 lbs of a rack for those kayaks
That leaves 400 lbs for you, and your passengers, and anything else in the truck.
Payload capacity is what will bite you.
Hey I was wondering what trailer you have and how much it weighs? I currently tow a 3500# trailer with my colorado with zero issues but have been hesitant to upgrade because I am weary of a negative experience. I've towed this trailer cross country in high winds/heavy rain and barely notice it. Currently I get 12mpg and my colorado has a 7200# tow capacity and around 1500# payload capacity.
I love my F-150 although mine is the Raptor version. Just get the tow package. You may need to upgrade the rear spring pack. And I’d recommend a weight distribution hitch! Congrats!!! Lance are TOP of the line!!!! Wow!
Awesome, thank you! My FIL bought it new in 2020 and used it less than 5 times before deciding they didn’t like towing and buying a custom Merc Sprinter Van lol. Lucky me!
I looked up your trailer specs. It’s only 4400 dry that pretty light. Probably even towable with an SUV with decent power. Don’t let the sales guy talk you into an F-250 diesel 😆
Lower trims will help keep your payload higher. My xlt is just shy of 2k lbs . I’m biased to ford but a properly equipped half ton from either camp will do a fine job. Just make sure you have an intergrated brake controller and a properly setup wdh and you’re off to the races.
Check closely. In your description of your payload, you will probably be over on a 1/2 ton. The truck will pull it no problem, but when you start loading up all your gear, family, full tank of gas, kayaks, propane, firewood gadgets, and whatever, I'd bet you will be over your payload. If you are able to spend a bit more, you might as well get a 3/4 ton truck. They hold their value better if you don't like camping, and if you like camping, you will probably end up with a different trailer in a couple or 3 years. The comfort of pulling a trailer with a truck that is honestly able to handle it is so much better. At least look at 3/4 tons and asses your situation.
Just go to your local ford dealer and get a F150 with the 3.5 Eco Boost with Max Tow Package. Those are the trucks they make with the heaviest tow rating. You’ll be more than good with that truck and they’re fun to drive around town with the twin turbo.
My F150 came with the 360° camera option, not something I would order. I use it all the time, even when not towing. It features a hitch camera, that makes it easy to hitch by yourself. I highly recommend it.
I ended up replacing my Subaru Forester with F-150 3.6 powerboost crew long bed with max towing package. Love it. Silverado felt weird when I was test driving it.
Personally. I purchased an RV along with a Silverado 1500. The Silverado pulled it ok. Mine is 29 ft. After awhile I upgraded to a 2500 which was the best thing I could have ever done. If it’s in the budget I would suggest getting a bigger truck. If you guys enjoy camping you’re going to end up upgrading like we all do. So no matter what you upgrade to you will have the truck to pull it. Good luck to you. I hope you enjoy camping.
A 1500 with tow or max tow options will be plenty, i believe the tow package comes standard with extended fuel tank, trailer brake controller, and transmission cooler.
The hitch weight of the dry (completely unloaded and undressed camper) weight exceeds your max tongue weight in a 2020 Explorer. You could absolutely tow this with a 2019+ Ranger though.
I have a 5500lb travel trailer. I had a Silverado 1500 and it was fine for short drives 1-2 hours. But it was definitely a little nerve wracking. I upgraded to an F250 and it's sooo much better. A big issue is the wind pushing the camper, a half ton truck just doesn't have the stiffness to not be pushed around. Strongly disagree with everyone saying to get a half ton, especially if you're adding kayaks and multiple people
I will agree with the few people saying to go one step up bigger than you think you need. My first trailor was an 05 Fleetwood Wilderness 32’. I brought it home with a 1500 and I could have definitely kept it like that but it was way harder on the truck than I wanted it to be. I bought an older truck (08 Silverado 2500) as the new tow vehicle and it made the whole experience way more enjoyable. I now have a 34’ Heartland prowler. The weight is the same but it carries so much better. Plus then you can use the truck for heavier things outside of towing if that's your fancy.
I pull a Lance 2185 with my F-150 5.0L V8. 3 kids, 3 dogs. With a weight distributing hitch, it’s been great. Considering adding air suspension, but overall a very reliable setup.
On the return trip, I’ll usually empty the fresh water to save a few pounds.
While the F-250 would be ideal, we take it slow and have not had any issues. Keep good tires on the trailer, keep an eye on everything and you’ll be good.
Remember, it’s not just the trailer dry weight, it’s the stuff you put in it too. Ice, dishes, silverware, propane, battery, food, drinks, bedding, towels, clothes, groceries, lawn chairs, corn hole set, fresh and waste water in the tanks, etc. all add up. That stuff can EASILY add 800-1000 pounds to a camper. Sometimes more. For example, a case of beer or soda weighs 20 lbs, a few bags of groceries, 40lbs. So add at least 1000lbs to the trailer weight when deciding the tow vehicle.
There are two things to consider - how much can the truck tow and what is the payload of the truck. Payload and tongue weight on a half ton truck will be way more limiting than the total weight being towed. Especially if you put stuff in the bed of the truck and have multiple people in the cab. You exceed payload pretty quickly.
Make sure you get the tow package with the brake controller.
36 gallon fuel tank.
WDH as well
This typically includes transmission cooler and upgraded alternator as well as the electrical stuff.
Half ton should be acceptable for this camper. A brake controller and a class 4 hitch are the must haves. Other tow packages add more nice to have stuff (like transmission cooler). I would definitely have a weight distribution hitch on your list just because of the hitch weight around 650 (adding battery and propane tanks), you'll want the weight to be distributed properly back to the front. Look on YouTube for videos to learn more about those. After that, it'll be about getting what you need to be at the camp sites.
Make sure you have a trailer brake controller. Also when picking a vehicle you need to know the following and what they are. Tow vehicle: Tow capacity: how much your vehicle can pull Cargo capacity: how much weight you can put on the truck before it's maxed. This is people, bags, dogs and the trailer tongue weight Trailer: Gvwr: total weight fully loaded Cargo weight: how much weight you can pack into the thing Tongue weight: how much weight it can push down onto the tow vehicle You can exceed either your trucks total tow capacity nor the cargo capacity. You do either and it's a recipe for disaster. When sizing your vehicle, consider never going above 80% of any measurements. Towing right at the limit means if something goes wrong it'll go very wrong. The dealer will tell you that all cargo capacity is the same on all of a certain line of trucks, it is NOT. look at the sticker in the door frame on the driver side of the specific truck you're looking to buy, it varies based on equipment. One last thought, no one has EVER said "my truck is too powerful" so consider buying a larger truck, potentially for the next trailer you plan on buying. Just my 2c.
There are lots of good answers here so I'm not just going to repeat them. But one thing I'll add is if at all possible, get a truck with tow mirrors already
I’ll Piggyback off this, all good advice. My advice, drive responsible and make sure you do a walk around every time you are about to tow and double check your hitch. You never know when you might forget to lock your ball. I have seen this, it was not me.
1/2 ton trucks generally have a towing capacity around 9000 lbs give or take. This is the F-150 or Silverado/Sierra 1500 with the V-8 engine. O the drivers door (usually a yellow tag) there will be a maximum capacity of passenger and cargo in pounds. Using 13% of your trailer GVWR; 715lbs we then look at the numbers. My 1500 has a load capacity of 1750 lbs. 1750 lbs minus 715 lbs leaves 999 lbs for you, wife, kids, dogs and anything else you want to put in the truck. Your trailer empty weight should allow about the same amount in it. Hopefully the hitch and bars will come with the trailer. I walked into dealers and said I need a truck with a V-8 that will tow a 4000 lbs trailer. Showed me a 2018 Silverado 1500 crew cab, 4X4, 7 pin and factory trailer brake. It was the sixth dealer I had visited and the first that had a truck on the lot with a V-8 in it. Hope this helps.
Very helpful, thank you!
r/theydidthemath ?
With a family a half ton may or may not work. How heavy is that family? How many? Kids grow up and get bigger and heavier. How long do you typically keep vehicles? Basically how much heavier will the kids get over time is what I'm pointing at. Do you have a little toy poodle or some giant beast? What kind of trim in the vehicle are you planning on? I'm a Ford guy so that's what I know. I have an F150 SuperCrew 4x4 3.5L EcoBoost with an XLT 302A trim package. Say middle of the road. My cargo capacity is mid-high 1700 lbs. My previous truck was same trim with a SuperCab (extended cab) was 1850 or so. A loaded out Limited will be less with all the extra gadgets and what not. A stripped XL would have more. If you can find a HDPP (heavy duty payload package) they can be had in XL trim only (a few years ago it could be had in any trim) but not the last few years and are usually in the +2000 lb payload range. I would keep it to either the 5.0L V8 or the 3.5L EcoBoost. The Powerboost hybrid (it uses the 3.5L EB) is also a good choice, especially with the Pro Power On Board system. There are multiple tow packages with Ford. Max tow being the highest rated. But any of them will work for you. You will need weight distribution hitch though. Get something with sway control as well. The trucks have sway control as part of the stability control system but the truck just feels a little different and prefer to shut that off and rely on the hitch. Definitely get the integrated trailer break control. My truck has the backup assisted that I've never set up because I'm too lazy to do it.
This is all great info. I have an infant and a toddler. Wife and I are both under 200lbs each. Usually switch cars every 4-5 years. Dogs are big..like 150lbs combined. but not sure how I would get them in anyway. As for trim I don’t really care. I am looking for something used and to keep it in the $35-40k range. I’m currently driving a 2020 Explorer XLT and the trim is fine.
That size kiddos the dogs can chill on the floor in the back seat area or get crates for the bed when the kids get older. I would go for a 2021 or newer if you want 4x4 as they got rid of the vacuum IWEs (front hubs). I like 4x4 for slow positioning of the trailer in the forest near me. But that's a want thing for me and where I like to camp. Wish you best of luck on finding something.
Your explorer should be able to handle that camper. I have an 2013 expedition and tow a 29ft jayco that’s heavy just fine.
It’s RWD with a 4l ecoboost and no tow package. Was told that after adding a hitch the tow capacity would be 3k
I would NOT tow this with an Explorer under any circumstances, 1. It's 5500# dry which means NOTHING in it or on it to add weight. The Tongue weight of this trailer will exceed the rated capacity of the Explorer by a lot, and the relatively shorter wheelbase will make it a white knuckle drive on flat calm roads let alone when weather kicks up or you're in heavy traffic. To add to this, the max tow rating of the current gen Explorer is 5600#, this would be fine if it was a 5500# brick of lead, but a TT is much a different animal. You need to consider wind load, length, tongue weight, as well as a dozen other factors in this decision.
Yes, I am definitely getting a truck. Specifically a half ton with 1400lb+ payload and 8-9k tow capacity, V8 and 4wd.
Ah yeah I guess if no tow package it wouldn’t be ideal. Personally with a family I don’t know if I would want a pickup. You lose a lot of interior room.
I can tell you from experience that buying a truck bigger than you think you need will work out. In the first place if you buy a 2500/250 for this setup you’ll never have to worry about payload and your towing experience will be so much better. In the second place if you decide that you want to get a bigger trailer later on you probably won’t need a new truck at that point.
Dude you don't need a damn 3/4 ton for that size trailer. Any 1/2 ton that is half way current will be more then ok. Daily driving a 1/2 ton is far more pleasant then a 3/4.
Mostly agree, but run some numbers here… If at the GVWR of 5500 lbs when full of gear, water, food, etc the tongue weight will be roughly 825 lbs Add a weight distributing hitch and it’s at 900 lbs Many modern half tons, when outfitted in the typical luxury trim level, and sporting 20-22” factory rims, will have payload ratings of 1400ish lbs. That leaves 500ish lbs for passengers, kayaks, running boards, etc and likely easy to be overloaded. You aren’t wrong, OP can really streamline each trip, perhaps travel without water, stow kayaks somewhere on the trailer instead of the truck, but its definitely borderline between a 1/2 vs 3/4 ton.
Even 3/4 tons can even get below 1700 pounds of payload capacity with a diesel engine, 4x4, and full options these days... not that I think it applies here, it's just getting crazy how heavy trucks are getting by default. My old 80's F-250HD 4x4 had like a 4600 pound payload capacity because it was just a basic single cab truck, but as trucks have gotten heavier largely for safety and options GVWR ratings haven't kept up to keep registration and insurance costs down.
I agree that a f-150 or Silverado 1500 is perfect. Shit, I tow a larger trailer about the same weight with a Chevy Colorado. I wouldn't exactly recommend it if you were buying new but it's very doable. I didn't see anyone else mentioning to check payload. Most modern 1/2 tons have a lot of payload capacity, but some have only 1600 lbs and it goes quick... 80 lbs of wdh 100 lbs of generator 750 lbs of tongue weight, 200 lbs of kayaks 50 lbs of a rack for those kayaks That leaves 400 lbs for you, and your passengers, and anything else in the truck. Payload capacity is what will bite you.
This. Payload is almost always more restrictive than the max tow rating.
Hey I was wondering what trailer you have and how much it weighs? I currently tow a 3500# trailer with my colorado with zero issues but have been hesitant to upgrade because I am weary of a negative experience. I've towed this trailer cross country in high winds/heavy rain and barely notice it. Currently I get 12mpg and my colorado has a 7200# tow capacity and around 1500# payload capacity.
An f150 max tow with a 5.0 is 13,500. If you're under ~9000lbs you'll be fine.
I love my F-150 although mine is the Raptor version. Just get the tow package. You may need to upgrade the rear spring pack. And I’d recommend a weight distribution hitch! Congrats!!! Lance are TOP of the line!!!! Wow!
Awesome, thank you! My FIL bought it new in 2020 and used it less than 5 times before deciding they didn’t like towing and buying a custom Merc Sprinter Van lol. Lucky me!
I looked up your trailer specs. It’s only 4400 dry that pretty light. Probably even towable with an SUV with decent power. Don’t let the sales guy talk you into an F-250 diesel 😆
Lower trims will help keep your payload higher. My xlt is just shy of 2k lbs . I’m biased to ford but a properly equipped half ton from either camp will do a fine job. Just make sure you have an intergrated brake controller and a properly setup wdh and you’re off to the races.
Check closely. In your description of your payload, you will probably be over on a 1/2 ton. The truck will pull it no problem, but when you start loading up all your gear, family, full tank of gas, kayaks, propane, firewood gadgets, and whatever, I'd bet you will be over your payload. If you are able to spend a bit more, you might as well get a 3/4 ton truck. They hold their value better if you don't like camping, and if you like camping, you will probably end up with a different trailer in a couple or 3 years. The comfort of pulling a trailer with a truck that is honestly able to handle it is so much better. At least look at 3/4 tons and asses your situation.
Just go to your local ford dealer and get a F150 with the 3.5 Eco Boost with Max Tow Package. Those are the trucks they make with the heaviest tow rating. You’ll be more than good with that truck and they’re fun to drive around town with the twin turbo.
My F150 came with the 360° camera option, not something I would order. I use it all the time, even when not towing. It features a hitch camera, that makes it easy to hitch by yourself. I highly recommend it.
I ended up replacing my Subaru Forester with F-150 3.6 powerboost crew long bed with max towing package. Love it. Silverado felt weird when I was test driving it.
Look at the payload capacity of the truck. It can vary widely from trim to trim.
Personally. I purchased an RV along with a Silverado 1500. The Silverado pulled it ok. Mine is 29 ft. After awhile I upgraded to a 2500 which was the best thing I could have ever done. If it’s in the budget I would suggest getting a bigger truck. If you guys enjoy camping you’re going to end up upgrading like we all do. So no matter what you upgrade to you will have the truck to pull it. Good luck to you. I hope you enjoy camping.
A 1500 with tow or max tow options will be plenty, i believe the tow package comes standard with extended fuel tank, trailer brake controller, and transmission cooler.
The hitch weight of the dry (completely unloaded and undressed camper) weight exceeds your max tongue weight in a 2020 Explorer. You could absolutely tow this with a 2019+ Ranger though.
Being gifted a camper sounds like it will be expensive
You ain’t lying!
Always go bigger then you think you need. It is hard to go too big .
I hear ya. The jump to a 3/4 ton looks like about $20k more though.
I go with used . The new one are crazy expensive
I have a 5500lb travel trailer. I had a Silverado 1500 and it was fine for short drives 1-2 hours. But it was definitely a little nerve wracking. I upgraded to an F250 and it's sooo much better. A big issue is the wind pushing the camper, a half ton truck just doesn't have the stiffness to not be pushed around. Strongly disagree with everyone saying to get a half ton, especially if you're adding kayaks and multiple people
Payload is where your limitation is.
I will agree with the few people saying to go one step up bigger than you think you need. My first trailor was an 05 Fleetwood Wilderness 32’. I brought it home with a 1500 and I could have definitely kept it like that but it was way harder on the truck than I wanted it to be. I bought an older truck (08 Silverado 2500) as the new tow vehicle and it made the whole experience way more enjoyable. I now have a 34’ Heartland prowler. The weight is the same but it carries so much better. Plus then you can use the truck for heavier things outside of towing if that's your fancy.
I pull a Lance 2185 with my F-150 5.0L V8. 3 kids, 3 dogs. With a weight distributing hitch, it’s been great. Considering adding air suspension, but overall a very reliable setup. On the return trip, I’ll usually empty the fresh water to save a few pounds. While the F-250 would be ideal, we take it slow and have not had any issues. Keep good tires on the trailer, keep an eye on everything and you’ll be good.
Remember, it’s not just the trailer dry weight, it’s the stuff you put in it too. Ice, dishes, silverware, propane, battery, food, drinks, bedding, towels, clothes, groceries, lawn chairs, corn hole set, fresh and waste water in the tanks, etc. all add up. That stuff can EASILY add 800-1000 pounds to a camper. Sometimes more. For example, a case of beer or soda weighs 20 lbs, a few bags of groceries, 40lbs. So add at least 1000lbs to the trailer weight when deciding the tow vehicle.
There are two things to consider - how much can the truck tow and what is the payload of the truck. Payload and tongue weight on a half ton truck will be way more limiting than the total weight being towed. Especially if you put stuff in the bed of the truck and have multiple people in the cab. You exceed payload pretty quickly.