In the RVing world, there is a distinct line between what an RV is and what a tent is. Numerous individuals enjoy weekend camping trips but shy away from the responsibility and hassle involved in actually owning a travel trailer or motorhome.
For those individuals, the popup camper is the right RV tool for them. Popup campers are becoming increasingly popular thanks in part to their modern updates and lightweight design which seamlessly combine amenities and comfort.
However, there is a question that plagues those interested in popup campers. Given that the walls are usually made of canvas, are they actually safe? The answer to that is a resounding yes, popup campers are safe.
While they might appear to be flimsy due to their design, manufacturers take great pride in ensuring every one of their products is safe and popup campers are no exception. Think about it this way, if popup campers were not safe, they would have seized to exist.
Perks of popup campers
When it comes to why people purchase popup campers over other types of RVs, there are numerous factors they consider. For one, a popup camper offers numerous features and amenities that aren’t available in a tent, yet they do not have to go through the trouble that is associated with an RV.
- A popup camper is affordable
- It can be easy to set up, pack and store
- You get increased protection from the elements
- A popup camper can be towed by the majority of vehicles. You don’t need to buy a half-ton truck just to pull it along.
- It offers more security and space compared to a tent.
Factors to consider before purchasing a popup camper
Just as with any purchase, you have to take into account your needs and preference. What might be important for one person might hold no value for you.
For instance, not having a kitchenette might be of no issue to you, but would be an essential feature for someone else. Below are some of the factors you have to think about before purchasing a popup camper.
The material the camper is constructed from
Popup campers are usually designed to have a hard centre roof held together by screen extensions and side which hold the beds. You can also purchase another type of popup camper which has hard sides in an A-frame.
The amount of time required to take down and set up the camper
The amount of time required to take down and set up the camperNot every popup camper is the same, especially in regards to how much time it requires to take down and set up camp. On average, it takes anything from 15 to 35 minutes to set a popup camper up after parking.
The majority of this time is dependent on the amount of gear you have with you. However, you must ask the manufacturer what the set-up time of the popup camper is.
To ensure that you enjoy camping trip to the fullest, you should refrain from purchasing or using a popup camper that requires too much time to fully set up.
How much noise can be heard?
When it comes to a popup camper, you not only have to consider how much noise you hear from your surrounding areas, you can also expect that every bit of noise you make is bound to be heard by those around you.
If you are the type of individual that cares about their privacy, then getting a popup camper would be the wrong decision for you.
How long repairs take and cost
A cheap popup camper might seem like an inexpensive purchase right now, however, it could end up costing you a lot more down the line when you add up the cost of repairing inferior materials.
400;”>Before you buy any popup camper, you have to pay attention to the manufacturing quality, the roof’s hardness and the mechanics of the roof lift system.
What you will need in a reliable popup camber is strong framing as well as water-resistant composite or solid wood interior compartments for storage.
A tear-resistant screen will ensure bugs remain outside and a waterproof and thick canvas will be impervious to leaks.
The amenities in the interior
Deciding the amenities, you want in your popup camper is extremely important. What you should never do is become swayed by attractive advertising and salesmen who want to sell you as many features as possible.
Think about what you do on your camping trips, if you do not cook on your trips, you hardly need a kitchenette.
By design, popup campers are fun. They are supposed to offer you the required comforts alongside a few extra bits. If you have too much or too little in your camper, your trips can become hampered.
Cooling and heating options
You have to take into account where you are going to spend most of your time camping when selecting this option.
The majority of campers offer heating or cooling options as standard. Given that pop-up campers are better suited to warm camping trips, it is more economical to get a cooling option as part of your purchase.
Sufficient storage space
Just as with any other camper, you should learn how to simplify and reduce the amount of stuff you carry to essential supplies.
That being said, popup campers come with a decent amount of storage space enabling to carry your essentials. One thing to note, however, is just because you have enough storage space does not mean you should cram them full.
This is because the additional load could weight the popup camper down and that could lead to issues when towing, especially if you exceed your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.
Protection from bad weather
A popup camper should be able to withstand terrible weather. Windows on a popup should be able to be zipped to effectively keep the rain at bay. That being said, the rain can hamper your clear out, as it is not a great idea to collapse a wet pop up roof.
This is because it needs to completely dry before it can be stored away. Drying it completely helps prevent the occurrence of mildew and mold. This can damage the holds within your camper’s frame.
When it comes to experience terrible weather systems, you really do not want to be in a pop-up tent as it isn’t the most secure place to be.
Should you be in a situation that has flying debris and high winds, you will be better off locating a solid structure safe enough for you to remain in till the storm or weather system passes.
Should you have enough time, it would be advantageous to completely collapse the trailer to ensure that it does not get damaged. It should only be opened when there is no danger to you or the camper.
Conclusion
A popup camper is suited to those that enjoy camping but are not ready to incur the added expense and responsibility associated with owning an RV. For these individuals, it is great to know that in the majority of situations, popup campers are safe.
What you get in a popup camper is the same manufacturing standard and amenities, only in a lightweight, collapsible package.
