Thank you for reading our post, please rate this article at the end.
Last Updated on October 2, 2024 by Paul Clayton
Table of Contents
Today’s Best Pop Up Campers
Pop-up campers are hugely popular right now. People prefer them to expensive motorhomes because they’re more practical and cheaper. A pop-up camper is a portable, foldable tent that is simple to set up and transport.
Of course, cheap doesn’t always equate to quality. The likelihood is that if you purchase a pop-up camper that isn’t very functional, you’ll need to purchase another, negating any savings you may have realized. Investing in the best pop-up camper up front is worthwhile.
Key Takeaways:
-
- Pop-up Camper Popularity: Pop-up campers are favored for their practicality and affordability compared to motorhomes.
- Choosing the Right Camper: It’s essential to choose a high-quality camper to avoid having to replace it soon after purchase.
- Top 5 Campers:
- Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side: This option offers solid durability, multiple floor plans, and modern amenities but lacks flexibility in interior customization.
- Coachmen Clipper Camping Trailer: This trailer is excellent for families and has luxury features. However, it is slightly expensive and less effective in extreme weather.
- Sylvansport GO: Lightweight and minimalist, ideal for small groups, but may feel too compact for some.
- Forest River Rockwood Premier: A spacious camper with comfortable amenities, though it’s heavier and may be too large for some buyers.
- Turtleback Trailers: These are best suited for rugged terrain. They are spacious and have off-road capabilities, but they lack modern electronics and have a small awning.
- Other Notable Models: The Conqueror UEV-490 Extreme and OPUS OP4 cater to more rugged, off-road camping with military-grade toughness and spacious designs, accommodating larger groups.
However, you’re in luck; an excellent pop-up camper may not need to be as expensive as you think. It can be complicated, though, because there are so many camper models available, each promising to meet, if not exceed, your expectations. To help make your buying decision easier, I’ve compiled a list of the best pop-up campers available today.
But before we get into the details, I’m assuming you would want to know more about the humble yet ubiquitous pop-up camper if you’re buying it for the first time. Or maybe you want to get reacquainted with this affordable RV. In this case, the next section is for you.
Each of us has our preferences, notwithstanding budget, so let’s begin with the most important factors to consider in a pop-up camper and some of the questions you should answer before purchasing.
Best Pop-Up Campers Review Criteria
- Selling Price—Being the most expensive doesn’t always translate to top quality. We have chosen five brands with excellent price points, i.e., more bang for your buck.
- Functionality—We highlighted each camper’s salient features that make it attractive to buyers. Brand A could have more storage capacity than Brand B, but Brand B has a four-burner stove, while Brand A has two.
- Customer rating—Who better to have a say than the person who tested it? It is one thing to sell a nice product and another to have an investigator of positive reviews and a highly recommended product.
- Feedback from product experts—Information from people in the know is valuable. The technicalities are where it’s at, and even laymen like us consumers need that understanding to appreciate the product even more.
We’ve spent countless hours and days researching this topic to provide you with the most comprehensive guide available. As we’ve already discussed, we had to talk to customers of the chosen campers and RV experts to balance objectivity in our review choices. We also used online surveys to supplement our opinions and preconceptions.
I will highlight the buying and review criteria we laid out earlier in this article and offer a few observations and thoughts.
We intend to provide you with as much detail as possible so that you can make your own informed decision about which pop-up camper best suits your needs. So, without further ado, please read on for our top 5 recommended pop-up campers.
The Top Pop-Up Campers
1. Forest River – Flagstaff Hard Side Pop-Up Camper
- sleeps two to eight persons
- has eight-floor plans
- up to nineteen feet in length
- closed length of about 17 feet
- a closed height of about 5 feet
FUNCTION
The Forest River—Flagstaff Hard Side Pop-Up Camper offers the best of both worlds. Its hard walls are comparable to many campers or travel trailers, yet its pop-up qualities keep it portable and convenient. It’s very easy to tow, and storage is straightforward.
Eight-floor plans allow for plenty of choices. The Forest River Flagstaff offers different variants to address different needs. If you want to save on conventional batteries, the camper is also prepped for solar panels, which can save a lot of hassle when camping without powered lots.
AMENITIES
The Forest River Flagstaff has all the basics plus bonus modern conveniences. With the multiple floor plans, you can have a beautiful enclosed living room with a maple interior. The pre-plumbed kitchen features a high-rise faucet and double-pan sink, similar to a regular house.
In addition to the three-burner stove, you have your microwave to reheat leftovers quickly. The underside pump ensures water supply.
Your entertainment is provided by a TV outlet cable, satellite hookup, USB ports, WIFI booster and ranger, detachable power cord plus converter, and safety breaker to keep your appliances safe. You can enjoy your zzzzs on quilted bed mattresses with an option for heated bed mats. Attend to your bathroom needs with its hard wall shower and residential-type toilet.
DURABILITY
The high-grade materials used in constructing this camper assure its long-term use and appeal without fear of wear and tear. It also has multiple specific warranties on the roof, floor, frame, tent, suspension, and lifter system.
USER-FRIENDLINESS
The fiberglass vacuum exterior, powder-coated steel frame, and four EZ Crank Down Stabilizer jacks with sand pads make setting up a breeze. You can camp out in style without much effort.
APPEARANCE
Combining the best features of a typical travel trailer and a pop-up camper improves the overall look of the Forest River Flagstaff. The rigid walls, large, tinted rear roof, and windows give it a homier feel. This also allows more natural light and airflow, which make your stay comfortable and give the impression of more extensive accommodation.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
I’m happy to declare the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side Pop-up camper as one of the best. As mentioned, the durable hard side walls and its folding top merge the great qualities of a trailer and a pop-up. We like how the entire camper is prepped to accommodate many gadgets and appliances to make your camping comfortable and effortless.
The linoleum floors with a wooden design and two-toned seats make the Flagstaff look even more beautiful inside. Eight different floor plans provide plenty of options to the buyer. Another plus is the nice bathroom, which I consider the best in a pop-up camper.
The disadvantage of the Forest River is that it does not have the flexibility of a camper style, where you can arrange your interior whichever way you want because of the hard side walls. This will depend, however, on your personal preference, as some might be okay with having a fixed floor plan. Compared to the Jayco Jay Series Sport, it does not have mud tires, so it’s less capable of camping off the beaten track.
However, you can always opt for a third-party tire to overcome this restriction. The pop-up camper also lacks a private screen room where you can hang out outside but still within the camper’s territory.
2. Coachmen – Clipper Camping Trailer
- sleeps two to seven persons
- has four-floor plans
- up to twenty-two feet in length
- closed length of about 12.9 feet
- a closed height of about 4.5 feet
FUNCTION
The Coachmen’s Clipper and V-Trec Camping trailers are among the nicest. An aerodynamic profile makes towing easy. This pop-up camper has fourteen different floor plans, which provides an incredible amount of choice and options. It can comfortably fit up to seven people, making it a great option for families or groups of friends.
You can store your extra baggage in the super sliding storage trunk.
AMENITIES
The standard facilities make camping inside the Clipper and V-Trec trailers relaxing and comfortable. In addition to the high-density Serta beds, several models of the Clipper and V-Trec have a built-in shower, Thetford toilet, furnace, privacy drapes, countertops, swing galley, and drawer, Bluetooth stereo, and acrylic sink, among many others. If you’re still looking for more items, add air conditioning, a solar panel, a screen room, etc.
You’ll never miss out on anything you thought you could only have in a typical home.
DURABILITY
The chassis’s tubular steel frame, Wide Trac Ultralube Spring, and torsion axles relieve you of any worries about the camper’s sturdiness. Driving with the Clipper and V-Trec is pleasant because of the electric brakes, radial tires, and Goshen Lift System with Double Arms. The laminated exterior assures you that your camper will stay with you for a long time.
USER-FRIENDLINESS
This pop-up camper features a Glide-n-Lock Cable Supported Bed System among its state-of-the-art inclusions for easy set-up. A Dual Drive Winch by Canimex controls the roof, which raises and lowers the roof in seconds when used with a power drill.
APPEARANCE
The Clipper and V-Trec camping trailers have that wow factor when you see the cabinets with walnut finishes, among other things. They paid attention to the littlest details so you wouldn’t have to look for anything else. The trailer folds easily, so towing it on the road is not an eyesore for other motorists.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
We, including other customers of this pop-up camper, are happy with all the facilities that come with the purchase. I consider this one of those top luxury pop-up campers in the market. The lightweight but aesthetically pleasing design is attractive to buyers.
The fourteen-floor plans allow you to enjoy many things, bring many companions, and not feel too cramped inside. You will barely need to adjust to staying in this camper because it still feels homey with all the modern conveniences it can carry. The electric brakes, aluminum rims, and radial tires are welcome additions to the vehicle’s performance.
While it has many useful features, the Clipper and V-Trec Camping trailer is slightly more expensive than its direct competition. It is also quite unreliable during extreme weather. And if I want to nitpick some more, the few color options might put off some buyers.
3. SYLVANSPORT GO POP-UP CAMPER
- Seam-sealed
- Suits minimalists
- 11ft 11 inches length
- Waterproof and durable
- Sleeps four people
The Slyvansport Go Camper can accommodate four people with half-sized and king-size beds. The awning kit provides 80 feet of extra space outdoors to provide shade. This camper is spacious, with a length of 11 feet 11 inches, to fit more items and allow your kids to play around; therefore, it suits family camping.
This product’s multi-use nature enables you to use it in camper, gear hauler, and utility trailer modes. It is comfortable and waterproof, with several sleeping and dining arrangements. Its lightweight design makes it usable with most cars and tracks and consumes less energy as you tow it around.
AMENITIES
The camper has three-way windows and doors for convenient accessibility. It also features strategic ventilation for airflow within your Go Camper. That is not all. Slyvansport provides you with self-inflating mattresses for restful sleeping.
Two-bed surfaces can also function as table panels. The well-equipped kitchen includes a sink, a fridge, a countertop, and a dual-burner stove so you can prepare meals and savor them. When you have had enough of the outdoor serenity, relax on the L-shaped sofa.
DURABILITY
This brand is designed to last years before you need to replace it with another. The manufacturer uses top-quality materials in its construction, including a powder coating on the steel frame that boosts durability.
USER-FRIENDLY
The brand offers a spare tire kit for easy changing. This camper’s control tilt deck makes loading items for camping easy, so you can easily pack your belongings for your trip.
It is also easy to set up with a fold-out awning. The Go camper model saves you much trouble, ensuring proper control when driving around town thanks to its torsion axles. They offer stability and cushioning for safe, comfortable vehicle control.
APPEARANCE
If you are looking for an elegant camper that is easy to spot, consider buying Slyvansport. It has a modern appearance that looks stunning when set up. The camper is corrosion-free and has a powder coating.
Expect it to look as good as new, with a sleek appearance. Its aluminum frame offers a firm yet light product.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
Slyvansport Go is an American product hand-crafted in Brevard, North Carolina. It is sturdy to withstand strong winds, storms, and floods. Its waterproof feature ensures that your valuables are safe from water damage. The aluminum deck fosters lightweight design and durability.
It incorporates a raised, slip-resistant surface that ensures your cargo does not slide around when you are on the go. The camper has beds, mattresses, ventilation, and a sliding kitchen. It is easy to put up and ensures stable control when driving.
On the downside, Slyvansport Go can be small for some buyers traveling with more than four people. Otherwise, it is worth buying. National Geographic termed it the coolest camper ever.’
4. FOREST RIVER-ROCKWOOD PREMIER POP UP CAMPER
- Wide range of floor plans
- Tinted vinyl windows for privacy
- It has a carbon monoxide and leak detector
- Provides USB charging ports
- Accommodates seven people
FUNCTION
Rockwood camper from Forest River is available in various models and provides users with an adequate room with a 19-foot length and amenities. It provides lots of storage space, including front and exterior storage. As you plan your trip, remember that it can accommodate seven people. Its 13-inch tire size is capable of carrying heavy belongings.
Rockwood has room for up to eight people.
AMENITIES
Forest River’s Rockwood Premier prioritizes comfort and convenience. It provides two king-sized beds and a large sofa that can be used for sitting and sleeping. The camper also comes with a toilet and a shower cassette.
It has a cabinet for keeping your valuables. Use the grill for a delicious barbeque on a lazy afternoon and have a good time with friends and family. The Premier series gives you an adequate supply of fresh water.
It has a slide dinette, a single sink, three cooktop burners, a water heater, an 11-foot awning, and a refrigerator that can be placed under the burner range.
DURABILITY
Rockwood Premier is made from quality materials. Its construction entails a sturdy steel frame, fiberglass roof, metal ceiling, fiberglass exterior, and high-grade tenting. The product is durable, with aluminum bed frames and easy-glide bed supports.
USER-FRIENDLY
Setting up the camper is easy, as it includes a lift system to help you, thus saving energy for other activities on your schedule. As mentioned before, the bed supports smooth gliding, increasing user-friendliness. You can adjust it to a comfortable position.
APPEARANCE
If you like rustic décor, Rockwood Premier from Forest River is for you. Its maple interior gives the space a traditional look. It may not look as contemporary as Slyvansports, but it is functional.
If you are searching for a luxurious camper, this is it. The two beds and a sofa contribute to the cozy design.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
Forest River is a Berkshire Hathaway firm. Its Rockwood premier pop-up range of campers offers different models to select. They are all expansive and have additional storage space.
The series includes heated spring mattresses for comfort purposes. The campers are sturdy and durable, with the amenities you need to survive outdoors. You can cook delicious meals on the burners and shower before heading out or sleeping.
With the lift system, putting up the product becomes easy.
The Camper Premier series is considerably heavy, as lower-weight products are on the market. You must check whether your vehicle can lug it. Besides, if you only want a small camper, this model is not for you because it is large.
5. TURTLEBACK TRAILERS
- They are spacious
- Uses a 42-gallon water tank
- Has a water heater
- 22feet length and sleeps 2-6individuals
FUNCTION
The Turtleback trailer is 22 feet long and suitable for off-road use in forests, deserts, and rocky terrain. It can sleep 2-6 individuals and provides space for bikes, kayaks, and boards.
Besides, it is towable with Jeeps, trucks, and SUVs and comes with top-notch, wide tires that guard against shock and prevent bumpy rides.
AMENITIES
The camper offers dual stoves for preparing meals while camping. Its cabinets can store kitchenware and other things. The faucet has great water pressure, and the water heater is helpful in winter.
Make proper use of the kitchen with two large drawers, sub-drawers, and a stainless steel table that speaks of elegance. The interior cargo area and kitchen have LED lights for nights.
DURABILITY
Turtleback incorporates a welded frame that is well-built, robust, and light for stress-free hauling. The floor is laser cut, while the metal foundation has a coating to enhance long-lasting functionality by preventing rusting and promoting a tough design.
USER-FRIENDLY
The brands’ electric brakes and axle construction help with safe, secure towing. Setting up the camper takes minutes. After that, explore your camping area, unwind, and enjoy being off the grid.
APPEARANCE
Turtleback is a well-designed camper with attention to detail. The manufacturer aims to ensure it provides enough head space for comfort. The drawers and cabinets assist you in organizing the trailer into a clean space, which is crucial, especially when you have kids.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
The model is a functional camper with basic amenities for a comfortable adventure. You get to prepare food, sleep, rest, and relax in the shade when the interior is hot. It is made of sturdy components that ensure safety and long-lasting use.
Turtleback may not be stylish, but it performs efficiently.
One disadvantage of the Turtleback is that it lacks a fridge and additional electronics, and the awning can be small, providing less shade.
6. CONQUEROR UEV-490 EXTREME
- Tough and durable
- Uses alloy wheels
- It has LED tail lights
- Uses adjustable stabilizers
- Lift roof with gas struts
- Allows five people
FUNCTION
When you purchase Conqueror, you invest in a camper that, due to its military design, suits rough terrain and climates. It has space for five people to sleep at a time. This brand is tough to stand in varying forms of weather, such as winds and torrential downpours.
The suspension system fosters proper weight distribution, ensuring stability when tugging the camper. It has two doors for an entrance that uses foldout steps and mosquito netting in windows. Regarding awnings, this product has one in the kitchen section and another on the shower side.
AMENITIES
The camper is as good as it gets. For example, its pantry space is accessible from the inside and outside,
and the door is lockable from the inside. There are two beds in the living space on which to rest. They have foam mattresses of high density for comfort.
This model has a bathroom, sidewall, and interior pressurizing blower that keeps dust outside the camper.
The exterior has a wood rack and jerry can holder for convenience. Use the two-burner stove to make a fresh pot of coffee, then sit on the aluminum camping table to grill outdoors.
This product has a barbecue grid to help with that. Its manufacturer adds a rail for installing a fridge, which is sold with the camper. Bathroom and grocery cupboards assist you in organizing your space for a neat look.
The Conqueror has carpet, roof insulation, and optional heating and air conditioning.
DURABILITY
The product’s military construction guarantees durability. The camper’s electro-galvanized steel body ensures toughness in the worst road conditions. Its mattresses have long-lasting covers, while the rugged hybrid design promotes longevity.
USER-FRIENDLY
Assembling Conqueror is fast, as with many other best pop-up campers. Unfold the tenting and enjoy the view of wherever you are. After your adventure, the tent folds into a small load for storage and safety on the road.
APPEARANCE
The camper is firm, stable, and roomy. Its olive color accentuates its military style. The tires are large enough to provide stability on the road, so you can be confident when towing it.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
Conqueror UEV 490 Extreme is a sturdy camper with an attractive look accommodating five people. The mosquito netting on the windows helps keep you safe from disease-causing insects. The rugged design allows this camper to withstand different types of shock while providing high performance.
Heat the grill, have fun outside, or cook food inside the camper. The military style should tell you this is not a luxury camper. However, it is large and comfortable.
7. OPUS OP4 POP-UP CAMPER
- Has no axle
- It consists of a tall ceiling with a 2.5-meter internal height
- It has super ventilation and LED lighting
- Uses overrun brakes
- Accommodates ten people
FUNCTION
The OP4 Opus camper is a classic model appropriate for off-road terrains. It is compact and rugged and can accommodate 10 people in bed. It is spacious, with two lids and a rack for carrying bikes and kayaks.
The large windows ensure airflow in the camper, which increases comfort during hot days.
AMENITIES
Let’s start with the impressive slide-out kitchen. Regarding bed space, this camper has two double beds and a convertible lounge to hold up to six people. Its awning system can provide space for four more people.
Opus’ heating system keeps you warm all the time. It also includes soft beds, comfy seating, sockets, a kitchenette with a sink and running water, a refrigerator, microwave, two gas hobs, a demountable table, a sitting area, 120v and 12 power outlets, and a portable toilet for convenience.
DURABILITY
Due to the insulated aluminum panels, this product boasts strength and a lightweight exterior shell. Its waterproof floor consists of long-lasting vinyl flooring, reducing costs. Opus also uses heavy canvas to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
USER-FRIENDLY
Setting up OP4 Opus is quick, considering you will be using a flip switch. In a few minutes, you are done. The camper deflates in seconds. Considering its lightweight structure, it is thus towable with an SUV.
APPEARANCE
The fact that the manufacturer offers you various colors to select from allows you to choose a shade that best appeals to your preference, including gray, orange, black, and blue. This model looks great wherever you are. The orange color, for example, pops out, increasing visibility when camping in the woods.
PRODUCT REVIEW SUMMARY
Air Opus is a worthwhile camper because it is durable and has all the amenities you wish to have when out. It is comfortable and light for energy efficiency. It can easily hold six people, but the awning can increase the number to ten. It consists of lasting parts, including the frame and flooring, to give you value for your money.
A disadvantage of this make is that it is costly. Nonetheless, its durability and satisfactory performance calm your heart, knowing you are buying something worth the price.
What to Look For In the Top Pop-Up Campers
FUNCTION
Suppose you’re fortunate enough to go on an adventure-filled journey in exotic locales nationwide. In that case, you might take some comfort in being able to hunker down in comfortable and familiar surroundings. A pop-up camper can meet these needs perfectly, but you may need to consider several aspects.
- How many people can sleep inside the pop-up camper? Some campers can accommodate two to eight sleepers at a time. Maxing the sleeping capacity can be cozy, but that’s the price you’ll pay.
- How much can you store inside? Some models have lengths ranging from ten feet to eighteen feet and up to fourteen-floor plans. A reasonable amount of storage should be enough to keep your things organized.
- Is it easy to tow using my car? Pop-up campers are generally lightweight, so they are compatible with virtually any type of four-wheeled vehicle, especially those with limited towing capacity. Pop-up campers are generally lightweight, so the vehicle’s fuel economy is unlikely to be significantly impacted. The low profile also means rear visibility is decent.
AMENITIES
This is where a trailer can up the ante over a regular tent—the creature comforts and features can be very attractive to a buyer. After all, a pop-up camper will be your home away from home, if not your only home, so it’s got to have the bells and whistles and then some.
- Does it come with a toilet? Toilets are not usually available for the smaller models for obvious reasons. For those that can accommodate one, it’s common to have a wet bathroom facility.
- It’s like the bathrooms you will find on trains. The shower head is almost directly above a waterproofed toilet, so expect not only to clean yourself when taking a shower but also for the entire room to get wet. If you don’t like the extra hassle, even a few have a separate shower and toilets. Again, it’s unlikely that these shower rooms will be huge, but there should be enough room to store shampoos, soaps, etc.
- Does it have a kitchen and a living room? Let’s keep it accurate: maybe a kitchenette and a sitting room. A small outdoor-style kitchen can often be found on the side paneling. These may consist of a compact sink and a two to four-burner stove. A portable kind can also be placed inside some models. Even if you’re only equipped with a two-burner stove, it can afford you the luxury of producing a range of homemade meals. Once you’ve been dining on takeaways and fast food for several days, the thought of a freshly made meal can be very appealing. Additionally, having a sofa can be a great addition to entertaining friends or serving as your retreat after a tiring hike in the wilderness.
- Can it fit a refrigerator? If your pop-up camper can hold a refrigerator, albeit the personal or mini kind, then that’s a big bonus. When choosing food to take on your camping trip, keeping frozen and fresh items cool can make a massive difference to the variety of foods you can take. A cold drink on a hot day can also be a pleasant treat.
- Does it come with beds? Don’t expect a big, fluffy, king-sized mattress. Remember, you’re not staying in a fully equipped five-star hotel room. It’s a camper, but you can still have a soft bed that is comfortable enough to give you and your family and friends a good night’s rest. Upgrade the bedding with aftermarket alternatives such as memory foam or hybrid mattresses.
- Can it accommodate an A/C and heater? An A/C unit during a hot summer and a heater on a cold winter freeze can offer much-needed comfort when the weather outside is less than comfortable. Pop-up campers are more vulnerable to the conditions going on outside compared to any other RV. If it is hot outside, it’s likely to become very hot on the inside unless you can create sufficient airflow through the tent. Likewise, if it’s cold outside, the temperature inside can quickly drop unless you can provide a heat source.
DURABILITY
Like any big purchase, you wouldn’t want to waste your money on something that will break only a few months, if not weeks, after you bought it. It’s good that pop-up campers can last long with the right care and attention, but you need to ensure you’re buying a reliable model. Like anything else, there are occasional duds that you’ll want to avoid.
There are some questions you need to address when getting your camper:
- Can I confidently drive it on the freeway without any concerns over its structural stability?
- What happens when you’re camped out, and it starts blowing a gale?
USER-FRIENDLY
The camper’s foldable feature should help you hinge and unhinge the trailer to your car without too much hassle. However, assembling your pop-up camper from its folded state can be tedious. It’s one of those things you need to know step by step using the owner’s manual. The more you use it, the more adept you’ll become at putting it up.
Practice makes perfect. It might need some getting used to, but this is another important consideration for your purchase.
MAINTENANCE
Care and maintenance are necessary for worry-free usage and confidence in its abilities. Aside from regular cleaning, you might be in for expensive repairs if they involve the camper flooring. Ultimately, it would be best to carry out routine checks on the waterproof canvas for wear and tear, holes, or anything else that may impact its waterproofing.
Checks should also be carried out on the roof lift system, seals, and tires. Abrasive holes are more prone to occur where the canvas meets the frame or where sections pivot, so pay special attention to these areas. You can probably do minor repairs and consult a professional about complicated issues.
APPEARANCE
Again, his camper’s collapsibility when on the move gives it a tidy look when not in use. When the trailer is unfolded, it resembles a tent, which is not necessarily a bad thing. You can add custom touches to your camper to match your style preferences.
CONDITION
Should you buy a brand-spanking new model or a used but in good condition variant? A used camper is not a bad idea if the preceding buying factors are met. A fixer-upper can also be a good choice if you have the skills and time. You might even be able to sell it for a profit once it is restored.
You must also check for any issues or imperfections on the following as well:
- the physical condition of the entire vehicle
- damage caused by moisture
- heating and cooling systems should be in working order
- fair selling price
But if you want to make a sound investment and have a solid budget, buying a new one makes more sense, most importantly if it will rack up lots of mileage. That’s, of course, just my opinion.
POP-UP TRAILER VS OTHER RVS
There are different kinds of RVs catered to different buyers. One type is the trailer van, a much sturdier version with a hard structure. So, how does our humble pop-up camper hold up to the trailer van? Let’s find out on this face-off:
PORTABILITY
Pop-up campers easily win this one. The specially treated canvas is lightweight and folds when you’re on the road, making towing the entire thing a breeze. Travel trailers, with their metal walls, are fixed in size whether you’re camped out or traveling. They are a lot heavier and bulky in appearance.
STORAGE
You can easily store your pop-up camper when not in use, with some models even having a door lock for added security and peace of mind. On the other hand, you might need to find a lot more space in your garage to accommodate your travel trailer, or worse, you may even have to pay just for trailer storage. Based on its compact size, which makes for easier storage, it’s now 2 points for pop-up campers.
DRIVING
Aside from being lightweight, the pop-up camper’s low towing profile allows for regular driving routines to which you are already accustomed. As such, backing up is less of a problem because of its low height when collapsed; it does not block your vision. When pulling an RV, such as a travel trailer, you need those special side mirrors to back up safely.
If only for this reason, the pop-up camper wins.
VERSATILITY
You can carry out most of your basic home activities, such as cooking, showering, relaxing, sleeping, storing things, etc., in the pop-up camper and travel trailer. Regarding versatility, travel trailers have the edge over pop-up campers; they tend to have more amenities and are easier to use.
While praising the benefits of a pop-up camper, they have several shortcomings that are not present in a travel trailer. I would say that pop-up campers are best suited for camping trips (glamping if you have a pimped-out model with extra perks) while travel trailers are for those who want to go on long vacations and save money instead of booking hotels. A travel trailer is more spacious and has more capacity for luxurious amenities.
Travel trailers also require very little setup. Most of the time, you can park up, and with a small amount of effort, you’re all set. They also offer a little more privacy because of their solid walls, which stop light and noise from escaping.
And in case you’re wondering, you don’t need a special driving license or any additional training to be able to pull a pop-up camper. Your existing license will suffice.
We’re nearing our best pop-up camper picks, and I know you’re excited to know which campers have been included. Now, you have been armed with basic knowledge of what you are buying, the good and bad points, what to expect, and what the alternative RV options offer over a pop-up camper. Now, let’s move on to our top picks and the criteria we’ve used to score each option.
LAST WORD
There you have it—five of today’s most sought-after pop-up campers. I’m sure more alternatives are available, but I’m confident that the campers are the best options. We have factored in buyer considerations such as function, amenities, durability, user-friendliness, and appearance for each pop-up camper.
And we have proven that a product need not be the most expensive to be considered one of the best. It’s about getting your money’s worth.
It’s a good buy when something is expensive but justified by its purpose and quality. We tried to cover the needs of all buyers—from the thrifty to the extravagant. While I could be biased in saying that you can use this comprehensive article as your only guide in buying your pop-up camper, it is still best to check out the corresponding websites of each manufacturer for more granular info.
I can only hope that I could contribute positively to your buying decision. If you finally purchase the camper of your dreams, fill us in with your experiences using the comments section below.
Home page
Back to the top of the page