How small can you comfortably go? That question was on my mind during a recent dealership visit with a friend who travels solo. My friend, Kath, is looking for an easy-to-tow travel trailer that won’t bust her budget. A sales gal met us in the RV lot.
She presented an overview of the camper: “The 2027 Cherokee Wolf Pup 17JW is designed for families who want a compact, lightweight travel trailer without giving up sleeping capacity or modern conveniences.”
(Ok, I thought. Let’s just see.)
She continued, “The 17JW measures just under 24 feet long. However, the clever floor plan comfortably accommodates up to eight campers.”
(Wait. Did I hear that right? Eight sleeping spaces in 24 feet? Is it magic?)
Read on, and you’ll see.
Behind the walls
The Cherokee Wolf Pup 17JW is built with an aluminum frame and laminated fiberglass sidewalls to help reduce weight while maintaining structural rigidity. A fully walkable roof makes routine maintenance easier. I pointed out that the underbelly is enclosed. That would provide additional protection for plumbing components. The trailer rides on a single axle and features one slide-out. The size seemed perfect for Kath.
The sales gal explained the changes in standard equipment for the 2027 Wolf Pup models: “It includes a power awning with LED lighting, prep for solar, a backup camera, and a touch screen control panel.”
I noticed manual leveling on this unit, which was a bit of a surprise. I assured Kath that a power drill will easily level this RV.
Key specs
- Sleeps: 8 (call me a skeptic, but I have my doubts)
- Length: 23 feet 11 inches
- Exterior width: 7 feet 6 inches
- Exterior height: 10 feet 6 inches
- Dry weight: 4,311 pounds
- Hitch weight: 607 pounds
- GVWR: 5,707 pounds
- Cargo carrying capacity: 1,396 pounds
- Fresh water: 26 gallons
- Gray water: 28 gallons
- Black water: 28 gallons
- 11-cubic-foot 12-volt refrigerator
- 20,000 BTU furnace
- 13,500 BTU air conditioner
- Tankless on-demand water heater
- 12-foot power awning with LED lighting
- MSRP: $41,000 (dealer pricing on our visit was $26,500)
There is considerably more basement storage than I anticipated. Kath mentioned she would want a second propane tank. (It comes with one.)
Interior and living space
Walking inside, the first thing I noticed was the bed. Hmm. Personally, I would have liked to see a Murphy-type bed that could transform into actual seating during the day. However, for a solo RVer, it works just fine.
The trailer feels more open and spacious than I anticipated. That’s due to the slide-out. It holds the U-shaped dinette and eliminates much of the cramped feeling often associated with lightweight travel trailers.
Kath really liked the neutral cabinetry, durable flooring, oversized windows, and thoughtful storage. “It’s comfortable. I like it. It’s a good size for me.” She’s right.
(I can’t imagine 8 people cooped up inside the Wolf Pup 17JW on a rainy day. Unless everyone remains in bed—there is not enough seating for all.)
Kitchen
The kitchen makes good use of the available space. A generous countertop provides enough room for meal prep, while the oversized 11-cubic-foot refrigerator offers considerably more food storage than many trailers of this size.
A microwave, cooktop, sink, and overhead cabinets supply everything needed for weekend trips or longer vacations. Storage beneath the counters and dinette helps keep cookware and pantry items organized.
Living/dining
The slide-out U-shaped dinette serves multiple purposes throughout the day. Kath could use the space for work during the day, along with meals—though she prefers to cook outside when possible. Large windows bring in natural light while providing campsite views. Entertainment hookups give Kath the option to add a television, though it’s disappointing one isn’t included.
Bath
The bathroom includes a tub and shower combination, a foot-flush toilet, and a vanity with a sink. There are also a medicine cabinet and additional storage.
“It’s all the storage I’d need,” Kath noted. She was especially excited about the tankless water heater because she loves long showers.
Sleeping
The Wolf Pup 17JW does not offer a private bedroom. However, the queen bed provides a comfortable retreat at the end of the day. Kath seemed happy with the setup but not the storage cabinets. She commented, “They won’t hold many clothes, will they? And overhead compartment access isn’t the best.”
I pointed out the windows on both sides of the bed, which will help improve airflow while allowing natural light inside during the day. There’s also a shelf/nightstand for Kath’s phone and glasses.
Bunk room
There is a bunk room in this travel trailer. I talked with Kath about perhaps removing the bunks since she doesn’t really need extra sleeping space. The bunk room could be used for work (office) or hobbies (she loves quilting).
Overall take
After touring the 2027 Cherokee Wolf Pup 17JW, there’s quite a lot to like. I wouldn’t recommend using it as a family camper for 8, but that’s just me.
For solo travelers like my friend, or maybe a couple, this might be worth considering. It’s an affordable, easy-to-tow travel trailer with a workable layout. The bunkhouse offers many possibilities for a person who is creative and good with tools.
What do you think about the 2027 Cherokee Wolf Pup? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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