The Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with Honda’s Tow Package and all-wheel drive; without that package, the limit is 3,500 pounds.
To put those numbers in context: towing capacity is a function of the engine, cooling systems, drivetrain, hitch setup, and the vehicle’s payload. This article explains what those ratings mean for real-world camper choices and offers guidance on matching a camper to a Pilot.
Tow capacity: what the numbers mean
Understanding the official figures helps you narrow camper options and plan safely. Here are the key points to remember:
- Max towing rating without the Tow Package: 3,500 pounds.
- Max towing rating with the Tow Package and AWD: up to 5,000 pounds.
- Payload limit: the Pilot’s remaining capacity for passengers, cargo, and trailer equipment; this varies by trim but is typically around 1,200–1,500 pounds.
- Tongue weight guideline: plan for roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s GVWR to stay within hitch and suspension limits.
In practice, that means a light travel trailer in the 2,000–3,000 pound range is easily feasible; a well-equipped Pilot can handle some mid-sized trailers up to 5,000 pounds GVWR, but you must confirm your exact model’s payload and the trailer’s GVWR before towing.
How to match a camper to your Pilot
Before shopping for a camper, use this process to determine what your Pilot can safely tow and carry:
- Know the trailer’s GVWR (not just its dry or unloaded weight); this is the maximum loaded weight the trailer can legally weigh.
- Ensure the trailer’s GVWR does not exceed the Pilot’s towing limit for your configuration (3,500 pounds or up to 5,000 pounds with Tow Package/AWD).
- Check tongue weight: aim for about 10–15% of the trailer’s GVWR and verify your hitch and Pilot can handle that load.
- Account for payload: subtract the trailer’s tongue weight and any extra cargo or passengers from the Pilot’s payload capacity.
With careful calculation and proper equipment, you can plan a camping setup that stays within the Pilot’s limits and maintains safe braking and handling on the road.
Camper options by weight class
These categories help you visualize which campers fit within the Pilot’s capabilities depending on whether you have the Tow Package and AWD:
- Travelers aiming for maximum ease should target trailers under 3,500 pounds GVWR (ultra-light and compact models).
- Mid-range campers around 3,500–5,000 pounds GVWR are possible with the Tow Package and AWD, but require careful weight management and proper braking.
For many families, the lighter end offers a simpler, more forgiving towing experience, while a well-equipped Pilot can handle somewhat larger setups for longer trips.
Travel trailers in the 3,500–5,000 pound range (with Tow Package)
If you’re considering a mid-size trailer near the upper limit, verify that your exact model configuration supports the full 5,000-pound rating and perform a thorough weight calculation before towing.
- Examples: mid-size 23–28 ft trailers with GVWR around 3,600–5,000 lb.
- Pros: more living space, better amenities, more flexible floor plans.
- Cons: heavier hitch load, higher overall trailer weight requires stronger braking, cooling, and possibly upgraded equipment.
Always confirm the trailer’s GVWR and perform a full weight calculation before tow day to ensure safe operation.
Summary
Bottom line: A Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the Tow Package and AWD; without that equipment, the limit is 3,500 pounds. When shopping for a camper, start with trailers in the 2,000–3,500 pound range for standard setups, or go up to about 5,000 pounds if you’re using the Tow Package and AWD, while carefully accounting for payload, tongue weight, and trailer GVWR. Always check the current model’s specifications in the owner's manual and with your dealer, and perform a precise weight calculation before towing.
What size camper can you pull with a Honda Pilot?
24-foot camper
With the available i-VTM4 All-Wheel-Drive system, the 2025 Honda Pilot can easily tow a 24-foot camper, a trailer with two side-by-sides, or a 22-foot boat. Even with the standard 2WD setup, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making the Pilot a versatile choice for all your towing needs.
What is the weakness of the Honda Pilot?
Transmission Problems
Many Honda Pilot owners have reported experiencing unsettling transmission issues. Symptoms often include rough shifting, hesitation during acceleration, unexpected jerking, or even complete transmission failure.
Can a 2017 Honda Pilot tow a camper?
With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Honda Pilot can tow a number of different types of campers, from pop-up campers to teardrop campers.
Can a 2020 Honda Pilot tow a camper?
So, how much can a Honda Pilot tow? With up to 5,000 pounds of power available, it can tow an ATV, a boat, a camper, or just about anything you need to your destination safely. Continue your Honda research by visiting our dealership and taking a test drive of any Honda Pilot model we currently have available!