Scamp vs. Casita

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Last Updated on August 24, 2024 by Paul Clayton

Scamp vs. Casita

The debate on compact, lightweight travel trailers often boils down to Scamp vs. Casita. Both offer unique advantages and cater to a specific demographic of travelers. This comparison seeks to delve deeper into the distinct features of each brand, helping potential buyers make an informed decision based on their individual needs and preferences.

• Both brands offer various sizes and floor plans.
• Scamp is known for its rounded shape; Casita has a squared design.
• Scamp trailers are generally more affordable than Casita trailers.
• Basic 13-foot Scamp starts at $11,000; Casita at $15,000.
• Scamp trailers are lighter, around 1,200 pounds; Casita, 1,500 pounds.
• Comparable amenities: toilets, showers, kitchens, sleeping areas.

About 11% of Americans own an RV, and if you are a part of that percentage, then Scamp vs. Casita is a debate you have undoubtedly encountered.

Scamp and Casita have been in the market for decades. They are one of the few trailer companies that have made their mark in the RV community, and over the years, they have gotten even better. 

They offer tons of models that are suitable for every RV lover. The features included in the RVs are designed to make your trailer life as comfortable as possible, and why not? It’s always their priority to maintain the utmost quality.

I’ll discuss everything about Scamp and Casita’s travel trailers so you have a better idea by the end of this post. 

About Scamp vs. Casita 

Before diving into the central part, let’s discuss their humble beginnings. 

Scamp produced its first trailer, the Scamp’13, in the early 1970s. By 1977, the company was manufacturing around 700 trailers per year. This shows the immense love that the company received from the RV community.

As the years went on, Scamp decided to offer its customers diversity, thus manufacturing bigger trailers. They introduced flexible floor plans, and the customers now had various options.

Casita trailers have been a part of the market since 1983. The first trailer was made after the Boler model, and since then, the company has offered its customers sleek, stylish, and compact trailers. 

Casita trailers are easily customizable. You can choose from various paint jobs, furniture, and add-ons.

Over the years, both companies have aimed to produce excellent and proficient trailers, and you can find them in almost every list of top lightweight trailers. 

All About Scamp

Let’s talk about Scamp first. This post covers everything from the models to the accompanying features.

Scamp Models

Scamp gives you three size options.

• 13′ Standard Trailers
• 13′ Deluxe Trailers
• 16′ Standard Trailers
• 16′ Deluxe Trailers
• 19′ Standard Trailers
• 19′ Deluxe Trailers

The deluxe trailer’s interior is luxurious and made from wood. You’ll find that the floor plan is also customizable. 

That’s why most people prefer the deluxe trailer over the standard one. However, these differences come with a heftier price tag.

The 13′ Deluxe trailer costs approximately $3000 more than the standard one. That’s a massive difference, but it’s always the best bet if you can afford it. 

Features

• Made from hard-shell fiberglass 
• A closet and rear side cabinets for storage
• Porchlight
• 12V lighting 
• Additional space for bunk beds
• A drawer and cabinet in the kitchen
• Curtains
• Exposed wafer board wood under the trailer

Pros 

If you go for a Scamp travel trailer, you will have many benefits that might make the expensive purchase worth every dollar you spend. Take a look at these advantages.

1. Lightweight

Over the years, the company has shown immense importance to the weight of the trailers. Scamp trailers are known to be lightweight while still being sturdy. They are designed to be towed by cars, minivans, SUVs, and trucks.

2. Cost-efficient

Another pro is that the trailers are aerodynamic. This means that they offer high fuel efficiency. You save quite a few bucks in the long run as they travel more miles on less fuel. 

3. Insulation

Scamp travel trailers are designed to provide maximum insulation. They trap the heat in and keep the cold out. The company states that its customers enjoy using their trailers in spring and fall.

The trailers are also furnace-safe to be used for extra heating. 

4. Parts are available

Parts of the trailers are readily available in the market to keep your Scamp in its best condition. Also, you can add optional items such as extra lights and appliances when purchasing the trailer. 

5. Quality

Scamp trailers are made from hard-shell fiberglass, which is pretty sturdy. You’ll find that they can be used in wildlife areas as the outer layer protects against nature.

The early 70’s vintage Scamp trailers are still in good condition and are circulating in the market. This is enough proof of their over-the-top quality.

Moreover, this ensures that their resale value doesn’t drop that much. You’ll find tons of used Scamp trailers with a hefty price tag in the market since they barely wear out.

Cons 

Although getting yourself a Scamp trailer seems like a pretty good deal, you should consider some cons.

• If you purchase a standard Scamp trailer, you’ll receive only essential appliances like drawers and a cabinet. 
• The delivery costs vary from state to state. Depending on your state, you might pay more for your Scamp than others who live closer to their outlets.

All About Casita

Now that we have discussed Scamp, let’s move over to another excellent trailer company, Casita. Soon enough, the Scamp vs. Casita debate will help you make the right decision.

Casita Models

• 16′ Standard Trailer
• 16′ Deluxe Trailer
• 17′ Standard Trailer
• 17′ Deluxe Trailer

Similar to Scamp, Casita offers standard and deluxe trailers. However, they’re not available in the 19′ option. So, your options are limited.

The company also offers the following models. 

• Spirit
• Heritage
• Liberty
• Freedom
• Independence

Features

Standard trailer features are as follows.

• 12V battery pack
• Two burner cooktop
• 16-gallon fresh water tank
• Two-piece marine-grade fiberglass body
• Sides and overhead wall insulation
• Safety chains
• LP as detector

Some standard models offer a lavatory, so do your research before purchasing.

On the other hand, all the Casita’s deluxe models come with a lavatory. This feature is highly appreciated in the community, but at what cost? 

Opting for a deluxe trailer will strip you of a few thousand dollars. 

Pros

Let’s examine why Casita is loved in the RV community.

1. Not Heavy

Similar to Scamp, Casita trailers are designed to be lightweight. The company states that a small car, SUV, van, or truck can easily tow the trailer.

2. Customizability

If you choose a Casita, you can customize it with more features, such as an electric tongue jack, friction anti-sway control, and bunk beds. You can order a trailer by choosing from various colors and paint jobs.

It also has an emergency escape window, a feature well-liked by customers. 

3. Heavy-duty Construction 

Casita trailers are made from a heavy-duty steel frame. This makes the trailer reliable, sturdy, and less likely to break down. Quality is Casita’s top priority so the trailers will last a lifetime.

Moreover, it has a fiberglass-encased floor meant to make the trailer stronger.

4. Flexible Floor Plan

The floor plan in Casita Trailers is customizable to your preference. This offers you tons of sleeping arrangement options. 

You also get around 50 cubic feet of storage space to improve it.

Cons

Casita trailers are flexible and provide plenty of advantages for the customer, but some cons need to be discussed.

• In the 16′ model, the fiberglass-encased floor adds some weight, making it difficult to tow.
• Most standard models do not come equipped with a lavatory. 

Scamp vs. Casita: Let’s Take a Look at Their Differences

Although Scamp and Casita are similar in size and structure, there are some differences, too.

1. Size Comparison

Scamp will offer a more extensive range of sizes, available in 13′, 16′, and 19′. Casita is only available in 16′ and 17′ size fleets.

Remember that those two extra feet in the Scamp 19′ model amount to much space. 

Similarly, if you want a smaller and more compact trailer, then Scamp offers a 13′ version. The company gives you more options to choose from.

Also, the 17′ Casita has a higher ceiling. It’s approximately 6’2″, while Scamp 16′ trailer’s height clearance is 5’11”.

2. Safety Features

What Casita lacks in size makes up for its safety features. 

Scamp provides you with only basic safety features, such as hand brakes. Casita, however, comes with electric brakes and safety chains.

Moreover, it also has a safety window that you can use to escape from in case of a fire or any other emergency. 

3. Weight Comparison

Both Scamp and Casita are lightweight, but users say that the latter is on the heavier side. 

Casita’s interior is lined with carpets for maximum insulation, and the particle board is used instead of plywood. The fiberglass-encased floor also adds a little weight. 

4. Price Comparison

Casitas are generally more expensive than Scamps. For example, a standard 16′ Casita trailer is a few thousand dollars more expensive than its Scamp counterpart. 

A 16′ standard Casita trailer is approximately $25,225. A 17′ standard trailer is available for $25,298, while a 17′ deluxe is around $26,996.

Scamp does not post its prices online. You can inquire about them by contacting the company, but generally, their trailers range from $14,000 to $28,000.

5. Appliances

Although Casita is more expensive, it’s because they come with many appliances that Scamp does not offer. 

For example, these are among the many features you’ll get in Casita trailers:

• A two-burner cooktop
• Silverware drawer
• Sink cover
• Blowout plug
• Water pressure regulator
• Outdoor shower
• Range covers 

Some Casita models also offer solar panels, video entertainment options, and many more add-ons that Scamp doesn’t. Due to these features, the Casita trailers’ resale value is higher in the market.

In a nutshell, the expensive price tag of Casita is perhaps worth it. 

6. Tires

Scamp company offers 13″ and 14″ tires. Casita provides 14″ and 15″ ones.

7. Layout

Casita models come with a double bed. Scamp doesn’t offer beds. Instead, it utilizes space by providing its customers with convertible tables and sofas to make sleeping arrangements.

Which one to choose? What to keep in mind while buying? 

A trailer is an expensive purchase. It would be a horrible mistake to end up with something that doesn’t meet your requirements.

Before you purchase, be clear about the features you want in your dream trailer.

Money

Perhaps money is the most important factor that ultimately influences your decision. 

Take a look at your savings. Do you have enough to buy a new trailer? If not, would it be suitable to opt for a used one?

Since Casitas are more expensive, you might be comfortable purchasing a Scamp. But if you prefer a Casita trailer based on its features, I recommend you keep searching until you find one.

Many more options are available, so don’t be disheartened if the price is out of your range.

Interior

Look at the floor plan, interior, layout, and space in the trailers. What do you prefer? Would you choose beds or sofas?

Does the free space meet your requirements? Do the cabinets and drawers offer the space that you desire?

Ask yourself these questions and try to look at the trailers in person. Ultimately, you will reach your conclusion.

See the Trailers Physically

This one is pretty important, too. What you see in pictures compared to real life is different. 

The nearest Scamp or Casita dealer may be far away from you, but always inspect the trailers in person. If your friend or relative owns one, ask them to give you a tour.

How Many People Can Fit in a Scamp and Casita?

The size of a Scamp and Casita trailer can significantly influence the number of people it can accommodate. Generally, a Scamp trailer comfortably fits up to 4 people, with configurations ranging from a two-person sleeping layout to a four-person dining layout.

On the other hand, a Casita trailer can accommodate up to 6 people, depending on the model. Casita’s larger models offer spacious seating and sleeping arrangements, enabling families or groups to enjoy their travel experience comfortably.

However, it’s essential to consider personal comfort and space requirements when determining how many people can fit in a Scamp and Casita.

Wrapping Up 

When comparing Scamp vs. Casita, both brands have established a strong reputation in the travel trailer industry with their unique designs, diverse sizes, and floor plans.

Scamp stands out with its distinctive rounded shape and is generally the more affordable option, with the basic 13-foot model starting at $11,000.

On the other hand, Casita adopts a more squared design and comes at a higher price point, with their base model starting at $15,000.

Regarding weight, Scamp trailers have a lighter footprint, approximately 1,200 pounds, which may be favorable for those seeking more effortless mobility and fuel efficiency.

Casita trailers weigh slightly more at 1,500 pounds, which could imply a more robust construction.

Despite these differences, both brands do not compromise on amenities. They offer comparable features, including toilets, showers, kitchens, and sleeping areas, ensuring that your travel experience does not lack any home comforts.

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