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A mobile sauna, also known as a trailer sauna, is more than just a wellness trend; it’s a profitable business opportunity. With the rise in demand for outdoor wellness experiences, mobile saunas are being snapped up for beachfront locations, glamping sites, swim clubs, and private hire businesses. Whether you’re looking to start a mobile sauna rental business or add a unique feature to your existing hospitality venue, securing a prime spot for a sauna setup can be a high-earning venture.
However, before launching your trailer sauna business, you need to understand the towing weight limits, vehicle requirements, and UK regulations for transporting a barrel sauna on a trailer. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from how much a mobile sauna weighs to what vehicle you need to tow one.
Why a Mobile Sauna is a Smart Business Move
If you’ve been considering investing in a sauna business, a portable sauna on a trailer is one of the easiest ways to break into the market. Here's why:
High demand – More people are seeking outdoor wellness experiences year-round.
Low overhead costs – No need for permanent premises, just tow it to your location.
Multiple revenue streams – Rent it out for private hire, events, and wellness retreats.
Seasonal flexibility – Operate year-round or move to different locations based on demand.
Beachfront and tourism appeal – Ideal for seaside towns, nature reserves, and spa resorts.
Many successful sauna rental businesses have already secured prime locations, so if you want to get ahead, locking in a beach spot, campsite partnership, or wellness retreat deal is key.
How Much Does a Mobile Sauna Weigh?
Understanding the weight of a barrel sauna trailer is crucial for choosing the right towing vehicle. Here’s an estimate based on our builds:
Sauna Size | Weight (Including Trailer) |
Small barrel sauna (1.85m - 3m length) | 800 - 1,200kg |
Medium mobile sauna (3.5m length, with changing room) | 1,200 - 1,600kg |
Large trailer sauna (4m+, panoramic window, changing room, heavy-duty stove) | 1,600 - 2,000kg |
This includes the trailer weight but does not account for additional gear like firewood or water buckets. If you plan to move your sauna frequently, especially as a mobile sauna rental business, choosing the right vehicle is essential.
What Vehicles Can Tow a Mobile Sauna?
To legally tow a trailer sauna, check two things:
Your vehicle’s towing capacity – Found in your car’s handbook.
Your UK driving licence category – Determines the weight you’re legally allowed to tow.
Best Vehicles for Towing a Mobile Sauna (UK Guide)
Vehicle Type | Example Models | Max Towing Capacity |
Small SUVs | Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga, Toyota RAV4 | 1,200 - 1,800kg |
Mid-sized 4x4s | Land Rover Discovery Sport, Volkswagen Touareg, Toyota Hilux | 2,000 - 3,000kg |
Large 4x4s and Pickups | Land Rover Defender, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200 | 3,000 - 3,500kg |
For mobile saunas over 1,500kg, a mid-sized or large 4x4 is recommended for safe towing.
UK Towing Laws for Mobile Saunas
Since December 2021, UK law allows anyone with a full Category B (car) licence to tow up to 3,500kg. However, you must ensure:
Your vehicle’s towing limit is not exceeded.
Your sauna trailer has brakes if it’s over 750kg.
Essential Considerations for Towing a Mobile Sauna
Trailer and Hitch Requirements
Your sauna must be on a braked trailer for safety.
A 50mm tow ball hitch is standard for most setups.
LED trailer lights and a matching number plate are legally required.
UK Speed Limits for Towing a Sauna Trailer
Motorways and dual carriageways – 60mph max
Single carriageways – 50mph max
Built-up areas – 30mph max
Insurance and Road Legality
Your vehicle insurance must cover towing.
If running a mobile sauna rental business, consider a trailer insurance policy.
Your trailer must display the same number plate as your vehicle.
Why Now is the Time to Start a Mobile Sauna Business
With the rising demand for outdoor saunas, mobile sauna businesses are booming across beach resorts, wellness retreats, festivals, and private hire markets. If you’re looking to invest, now is the time to secure a prime spot before competitors do.
Looking for a custom-built mobile sauna? Get in touch today and let’s build the perfect trailer sauna for your business.