With recent advancements in technology, things have gotten better, from broadband, LED lighting, lithium power, solar, air conditioning to efficient refrigeration, which has been integrated innovatively in the new campers. Camper manufacturers such as Airstream and Winnebago have been responsive to this advancement and have since manufactured campers with extraordinary livability and luxury upgrades, all in different sizes.
Factors to consider
Try it before finalizing the purchase
Before purchasing a camper, try it by renting to gain foresight. In a few days of experience, you will know the ideal features and shortcomings. If you are already thinking about a particular model, RVShare and Outdoorsy are great places to find one.
Safety
Steadfast adherence to safety guidelines is ideal for camper manufactures. Arguably, it is difficult and expensive for manufacturers who do not adhere to safety guidelines as auto manufacturers to crash test campers.
Surprisingly, you get campers lacking rear airbags and a significant number of RVs relying on old-fashioned lab belts, while three-point belts are safer to use. One-piece van and pickup truck campers are safer options.
Other considerations
Noisy a/c-running generators may cause disturbances. Hence, an engine-run generator or lithium power system is ideal. Besides, idling diesel is discouraged by manufacturers. Thus, a gas engine is better if you will park with dash a/c for long. During winter, you should consider winter-proofing seriously to avoid frozen or burst pipes.
Also, consider simplicity and lower the cost of a travel trailer. Most RVs are financed for 20 years but consider all options. Importantly, ensure you check all elements before buying.
How we choose
Besides safety, reputation, innovativeness, and affordability are essential factors to consider.
Van campers
Mercedes Benz Metris Weekender. Price range from $65,000.
It is among the most drivable and safer campers, thanks to Mercedes. Its unique size is similar to Vanagon or Eurovan camper. It has innovatively built features such as a rear fold-down seat bed and a pop-top sleeping quarters, which has an independently sprung mattress making it very comfy.
Also, Metris weekender has rear curtain airbags, stability systems, and a slew of collision avoidance. The 2.0-liter turbo motor is small but offers an astonishing grunt and a remarkable 5000-pound towing capacity.
Winnebago Solis. Price ranges from $100,667.
Solis is a small but relatively affordable four-sleeper camper from Winnebago manufacturers. Its front-wheel-drive chassis has a 6ft and 2inch of interior height with the pop-top down and a 19 foot, 9-inch length, which makes maneuvering manageable.
It also offers shoulder-belted rear seats that are very comfortable just behind the driver. A rear sofa-bed is a good option for doubling the camper to a family hauler. Pop-top is accessed by a ladder and features a 220-watt solar panel, and hides a spring mattress.
This camper has a functional wet bath with a European design cassette toilet within the camper, preventing pipes from bursting or freezing. It also contains a water sink, two-burner stove, excellent insulation, an efficient fridge, and a trauma heating system.
Roadtrek CS/RS Adventurous. Price range from $151,510.
If you are looking for a larger Class B Roadtrek CS and RS, then adventurous is the best choice. The all-wheel-drive Mercedes are available in 21 foot and 24-foot versions. Gear or hauling people interior options are also offered. CS is a 3-sleeper with up to 6 seats, while RS is a 4-sleeper with up to six seats.
Their most outstanding feature is the two-bedroom aspect allowing for a cozy dinette and a lounge with a galley and bathroom between them. The Domestic A/C and Alde hydronic helps in keeping the right temperature.
AT Overland Atlas. Price ranges from $9,600.
The Atlas pop-top offers six feet and 10 inches interior with more than 100-pound roof cargo. It has gas-filled struts that help in lifting. Also, you can raise it with kayaks, bikes, or standup paddleboards. It is a well-insulated camper. It features zippered windows, bear-spotting, and a fold-out queen-size bed. You can close the Atlas camper to seal yourself in and run more activities from inside in extreme weather conditions.
