While not as well-known as some of the more prominent brands in the RV space, Cruiser RV has been around for nearly four decades. Over that time, the company has earned a reputation for build quality, craftsmanship and innovative design. No where is this more evident than with the Cruiser RV Stryker toy hauler, a towable that defies industry conventions to chart its own course.
Photo Credit: Cruiser RV
Unlike most toy haulers, the Stryker is a travel trailer rather than a fifth-wheel. That alone makes it more accessible to a wider audience. And with a weight of just 7,334 pounds and a 29′ 4” length, the entry-level ST2314 floor plan further reinforces the rig’s accessibility. But don’t think you’re sacrificing anything with this model. It still comes with a 14′ 2” garage and a rear ramp that converts into a patio.
“Our models are ‘open concepts’, which works very well for the western United States,” Cruiser general manager Kyle Miller tells us. “This allows owners to bring their large toys without towing a 43-foot fthwheel, making them more agile in and out of the mountains.”
Need something with more space? Cruiser has you covered. The Stryker is available in eight floor plans, each with its own distinct identity. One model comes with an 18′ garage with added space for an ATV, motorcycles, ebikes, kayaks and more. Another features a side patio to complement the rear deck, while a third offers a living space separate from the garage and room to comfortably sleep nine.
Photo Credit: Cruiser RV
Floor-plan diversity is one of the Stryker’s greatest strengths. While other manufacturers are content to make minor interior changes to their rigs, Cruiser gives each model its own personality. So much so, that RVers may have a hard time deciding which option to go with, balancing the size of the toy garage against living space and other distinctions.
No matter which floor plan you choose, all models include a king-size bed, residential-style appliances, and 190 watts of solar. The trailers offer generator prep with a 30-gallon fuel tank and a built-in pump for gassing up motorized toys. An E-Z Flex rubberized suspension and 16” wheels provide a smoother and quieter ride, while a 15K BTU ducted air conditioner and on-demand water heater keep you comfortable at the campsite.
Moving beyond its list of specs and collection of features, the Stryker cuts—well, a striking profile. The trailer is sleek and modern looking, with an aerodynamic fiberglass front cap and laminated sidewalls. An understated exterior graphics package adds flair without getting overly flashy. Deploying the rear deck only enhances its campsite appeal.
Photo Credit: Cruiser RV
“Our taller ceilings make the living space feel so much bigger, even in our smaller models,” Miller say. “We also trim out the Styker with solid surface countertops and larger microwaves, giving it a more residential feel.”
Conventional RV wisdom says toy haulers aren’t for everyone. But the Stryker may be an exception. Its blend of utility, versatility, and use of space gives it a broader appeal, even if you aren’t bringing any toys along on your camping adventures. And with a starting price of $55,407, it delivers a lot of bang for your buck, too. That’s something everyone can appreciate.
Dimensions
GVWR: 11,334 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 943 lbs.
Overall Length: 29′ 4″
Exterior Height: 12′ 9″
Illustration by Dee Duncan
Painted and molded aerodynamic fiberglass front cap.
Heavy-duty suspension for a smoother ride.
190W solar panels installed on roof.
Broad 30” main entry door with telescoping handrail.
Power tongue for easy hitching and unhitching.
Reinforced axles with self-adjusting brakes.
Large tinted windows help maintain interior temperatures.
Shopping for a well-appointed and reliable travel trailer that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg? Believe it or not, there are some excellent options available. These budget towables deliver a lot of value for less than $25,000.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Access
The Access is Winnebago’s most affordable travel trailer, offering the brand’s renowned build quality and customer service at a nice price. Available in nine floor plans, all versions of the Access include bright, modern interiors with well-equipped galley kitchens, a multifunctional dinette and a bathroom with surprisingly roomy showers. The rig sleeps up to seven people, with the 26BH bunkhouse model standing out as an especially nice choice for families. Pricing starts at $20,277.
Photo Credit: Jayco
Jayco Jay Flight SLX
With standard features like queen-size beds, hardwood cabinetry, vinyl flooring and spacious tub/showers, the Jayco Jay Flight is a compelling entrant in the budget-trailer battle. Dozens of floor plans address the needs of many types of traveler: couples, families, first-time buyers (among others). Trailer lengths start at 21’ 3”, with a dry weight of 2,920 pounds, which eliminates the need for a large tow vehicle. A starting price of $17,243 only adds to the appeal.
Photo Credit: Starcraft
Starcraft Autumn Ridge
This well-equipped travel trailer’s notable features include a fully walkable roof, a power tongue jack and 200 watts of solar. Inside, it is no less impressive, with a three-burner stove, energy-efficient 12V fridge and membrane countertops in both the kitchen and bathroom. Depending on which of the 14 floor plans you choose, this rig will sleep up to 12 people, making it easy to bring your whole crew. Pricing starts at $15,743.
Photo Credit: Keystone
Keystone Coleman
Keystone took over production of the Coleman line of travel trailers in 2025, bringing improved build quality and refreshed interiors to this venerable brand. The line now includes seven floor plans with room to sleep up to eight people. All models come with an induction cooktop, a microwave and a minifridge. Multiple bunkhouse models in varying sizes make this a convenient, flexible, and affordable option for RVing families. Pricing starts at $12,632.
How do you turn a happy camper into an even happier one? Give them a lightweight travel trailer that deftly blends retro styling with thoroughly modern materials and components. Add in a cozy, customizable interior, along with high-tech features. Then sell it at a relatively affordable price. Yeah, that ought to do it.
That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Happier Camper Traveler, a towable that looks like something from a bygone era, but performs like an RV built and designed in the 21st century. Founded in 2009, Happier Camper started as a vintage RV restoration and rental company that specialized in fiberglass trailers. As the business grew, founder Derek Michael branched out by designing his own travel trailers, using fiberglass shells and seamless construction to prevent leaks and maintain structural integrity. The towables Michael created turned out to be relatively easy to keep clean and maintain, often requiring just regular washing and waxing to stay looking new. This greatly extends the RV’s lifespan and leads to potentially higher resale values, too.
Photo Credit: Happier Camper
With three models to choose from, the HC Traveler has an option for a variety of buyers and budgets. The entry-level Essentials trailer is the lightest and most affordable version, while the Adventure edition steps things up with the addition of an onboard bathroom and kitchenette. The Summit is the top trim, and includes everything the Adventure has to offer, plus a full-size fridge, a microwave, a built-in closet, solar panels and more. All three models have a GVWR of under 3,500 pounds, making them easily towable behind a small truck, SUV or even some cars.
Using Happier Camper’s Adaptiv system, owners can customize interiors. Each of the company’s trailers comes with a specially designed fiberglass floor that includes a grid-like pattern and a series of frame-mounted D-rings. Modular components—like tables, benches, and beds—securely lock into place along the grid, creating an environment that is unique to each individual. The modules can be quickly and easily removed or rearranged, changing up the cabin in a matter of minutes.
Because the HC Traveler includes an integrated bathroom and kitchenette, owners leverage the Adaptiv system primarily in its dynamic living space and for upgrading the sleeping arrangements, the Happier Camper team says. That versatility is a major draw, allowing owners to easily customize their space for other uses, such as a mobile office, a comfortable lounge or for efficient gear transport
Photo Credit: Happier Camper
One of the more popular Adaptiv modules is the bunkbed option, which, when paired with Happier Camper’s standard bed/lounge components, allows the Traveler to comfortably sleep up to six. That’s not bad for a compact travel trailer that also somehow manages to include two separate living spaces, along with a bathroom and kitchenette on the higher-end models. As many as five panoramic windows provide plenty of natural light.
While there’s no question the Traveler is an innovative rig, it is the RV’s distinctive looks that garner much of the attention. The travel trailer’s retro-inspired design definitely generates nostalgic vibes that turn heads at the campground. An elegant two-tone paint job lends credence to the idea that this could have originally been built in the 1950s and painstakingly and lovingly restored by hand. That timeless look should allow the towable to age gracefully. Something owners will appreciate when they pass it along to the next generation of happy campers.
Pricing for the Happier Camper Traveler starts at $39,950. happiercamper.com
Dimensions
GVWR: 3,500 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 250-325 lbs.
Overall Length: 17′
Exterior Height: 8′ 5″
Illustration by Dee Duncan
1. The Traveler is built with a double-hull fiberglass shell.
2. 14” tires and a torsion axle with independent suspension ensure a smooth ride.
3. The entry door includes a nautical-inspired porthole window
4. Windows on both sides and the rear of the trailer provide plenty of natural light.
5. 17-gallon fresh water and gray water tanks enable off -grid camping.
6. An easy crank-out awning fi ts neatly with the retro-inspired design.
7. An outdoor porch light illuminates the slide-out steps.
8. Rear stabilizing jacks keep things level and secure at the campsite.
If you’ve been curious as to why destination trailers have become such a hot category in the RV industry in recent years, you only need to check out the video above. It features the new Forest River Salem Grand Villa 42ZEN, a two-story, three-bedroom model that defies expectations. There is so much packed into this amazing floor plan that you’ll have to see it to believe it.
Photo Credit: Forest River
Highlights of this beautiful trailer include two full bathrooms, both with walk-in showers and linen closets. The living room comes with a massive sectional sofa for lounging in front of the fireplace and a large 4K smart TV mounted on a television. Meanwhile, the primary bedroom includes a versatile-tilt king-size bed, while the second and third bedrooms—both lofted—come with queen mattresses. The island kitchen is equally impressive, with residential-style appliances and bar-stool seating with room for four.
As you would expect from a destination trailer, the Salem Grand Villa 42ZEN is large and heavy. The rig measures 44′ 11″ end-to-end, and has a GVWR of 16,804 lbs. It comfortably sleeps up to eight people, and is built for three-season camping, meaning you wouldn’t want to spend much time in it during the winter. Obviously, a trailer of this size requires a hefty vehicle to move it around, although this one is a bit more towable than some other park models, although its tall profile could present some challenges. Still, once it’s in place, the 42ZEN would make a very comfortable place to rest and relax, with nice touches like washer/dryer prep and ample storage allowing for extended stays.
Whether you have a job that allows you to work from anywhere, or you simply need to stay productive while traveling, you may be in the market for an RV with an office. The good news is, there are now more towables and motorhomes with dedicated work spaces than ever before, making it easier to find a model that meets those needs. But sorting through all the available options can be a challenge, too, as it is often difficult to determine which RV best suits your needs.
The video above takes us inside seven RVs, each with its own purpose-built office space. This allows viewers to get a sense of what those spaces look like, how much room they offer, and any unique features they may have. That makes it much easier to assess those environments to determine whether or not they are suitable for remote work.
If you’re in need of an RV with an office, you’ll certainly find plenty of great options here. Each has its own spin on what a mobile workspace should look like, while allowing owners to personalize the setting to meet their needs. Press play on the video above to start your tour of these impressive campers and start thinking about how they can help you get away from the daily grind a little more often.
The Arctic Fox NXT line of travel trailers from Northwood is everything you’ve come to expect from the brand. Rugged, dependable, and built for four-season adventures, these towables continue the company’s legacy of innovation and outstanding design. And with the addition of the new 22GT floor plan, customers can now opt for a model that delivers everything you need in a compact and cozy layout.
Photo Credit: Northwood
Built on a custom Northwood Ironhorse chassis, and riding on a MORryde CRE-3000 premium suspension, the Arctic Fox NXT 22GT delivers excellent performance on road and off. The rig measures 23’ 10” end-to-end, making it the smallest of the NXT floor plans. Still, it has room to comfortably sleep four, with more than a few surprising amenities inside.
Interior highlights include a Tru-Rest ultra-comfort queen-size bed and a spacious dinette that converts into another sleeping area. The kitchen comes equipped with a three-burner stove, a residential-style microwave with built-in air fryer, and a 10-cubic-foot 12V refrigerator. A full-width rear bath includes a glass-enclosed shower, porcelain toilet, and solid surface countertops with a stainless steel sink.
Photo Credit: Northwood
This being a Northwood travel trailer, the Arctic Fox NXT 22GT is ready for year-round camping. The towable comes with four-season insulation in its laminated, multi-layer substrate walls, and a heat-reflecting layer in the roof. Add in a 25,000 BTU auto-ignition furnace, a 13,500 BTU A/C unit, seamless thermal pane windows, and heated holding tanks, and you’re ready to take on the worst that Mother Nature throws at you.
Those looking to camp off-grid will find a lot to love here, too. The trailer ships with 400W of standard solar, with the option to add an additional 200W or 400W. The rig is also generator-ready, allowing owners to quickly and easily add another power source if needed. And thanks to a 100-gallon freshwater tank, you can stay at a remote campsite for extended periods.
Photo Credit: Northwood
Other nice features of note include energy-efficient LED lighting inside and out, an exterior shower, and outdoor wireless speakers. The Arctic Fox NXT also comes with a built-in omnidirectional TV antenna that connects to the 32” LED smart TV mounted next to the dinette. An optional FoxForward multiplexing system puts control over power, HVAC, lighting, and other functionality right at your fingertips, while cathedral-arched ceilings give the cabin an airy, modern feel.
The Northwood Arctic Fox NXT 22GT is available now. To learn more about this amazing travel trailer, visit the Northwood website.
Who says you need a pick-up truck to tow an RV? Sure, larger travel trailers and fifth-wheel models require a truck to safely pull them down the road, but there are plenty of lightweight options available that don’t need a pick-up at all. That’s the subject of the video above, which introduces us to five smaller RVs you can tow with an SUV, effectively eliminating one of the hurdles to owning a camper.
This rigs may be small in stature, but that doesn’t mean they lack features. All have a queen-size bed or larger and a spacious private bathroom. Most have a versatile dinette for gathering at mealtime, playing games, or working while on the road. Well-equipped kitchens are the norm, as is ample onboard storage, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
This is just a sampling of RVs that you can tow with an SUV. There are plenty of other models on the market that fit into this category. The important thing is to know the towing capacity of your vehicle and allow for plenty of headroom to accommodate not only the weight of the camper but all of the cargo (including water, food, and other supplies) that you’ll be bringing with you. If the weight of the RV exceeds the towing capacity, not only will it be unsafe to drive, you could do serious damage to your tow vehicle, too. For more information, check out one of our online towing guides.
When most people think about toy haulers, they picture a 40’+ fifth-wheel trailer with a large garage designed for carrying ATVs, motorcycles, golf carts, and other motorized vehicles. But the RV industry also offers a number of other options that don’t fit that preconceived notion. In fact, there are a number of small toy haulers that offer the same level of versatility and utility that you’ve come to expect from the category, just wrapped up in a more compact and lightweight form factor.
The video above introduces us to several of these small toy haulers, each of which is a travel trailer rather than a fifth-wheel. This makes them much easier to tow, eliminating the need for a big truck to pull them around. Most of these models are under 30′ in length, but still come with a garage large enough to bring all of your gear. When empty, that garage space turns into another bedroom or extends the living space, making these rigs great options for families or couples who just need some extra room.
If you’re in the market for a toy hauler, but don’t want or need a rig that is massive in size, then hit play on the video. You’ll likely be very surprised at what these travel trailers have to offer, including some creative and innovative floor plans that make the most of the space available.
While some RV manufacturers are busy announcing the latest upgrades and updates for the coming model year, others are introducing new models to entice customers. Take for example the just-revealed Keystone Walkabout, a travel trailer that includes a number of thoughtful design choices. Designed and built in collaboration with Steven Rinella of MeatEater fame, this rig comes with a slew of features meant to appeal to the outdoor adventurer.
Photo Credit: Keystone
The first thing you’ll notice about the Keystone Walkabout is its striking exterior design, which features a black paint scheme with red highlights. The trailer is built from automotive-grade aluminum and is accented with tough 11-gauge aluminum corner rails for added protection when traveling over rough terrain. All-terrain tires and a Curt Touring Suspension help you reach far-flung campsites. And when you’re there, an automatic three-point leveling system provides safety and stability.
Currently, the Walkabout is only available in the 26MAX floor plan, which is a little over 30 feet in length with a weight of 7,140 lbs. It offers room to comfortably sleep six, and features an impressive amount of onboard storage. That includes a massive 60-square-foot passthrough cargo area equipped with a waterproof floor and built-in racks for fishing rods. A second storage space is dedicated to drying boots, gloves, and other outdoor gear vital to outdoor adventures.
Photo Credit: Keystone
The interior holds a number of other notable features, but it is the atrium slide-out that most caught our eye. Located in the living room area, this slide features massive windows along the main wall, the sides, and the roof. This allows plenty of natural light into the cabin, where you’ll also find one of the most comfortable-looking RV couches we’ve ever seen.
Other features of note include an exterior fold-down kitchen that attaches to the trailer via suction cups, allowing it to be moved to where it is most needed. The Walkabout also comes with factory-installed solar panels, although just how much capacity they provide remains to be seen. An exterior spray hose connects to the 54-gallon freshwater tank and makes cleaning gear a breeze. Meanwhile, a 30” wide rear door makes loading and unloading equipment—like bikes or kayaks—a simple affair.
Photo Credit: Keystone
The Walkabout’s kitchen is modern, open, and simple. It includes tons of storage space, a composite Thinscape countertop built to wear well in the wild, and a massive sink with a pullout faucet and sprayer. A two-burner gas cooktop, convection microwave, and a 10-square-foot 12V French-door refrigerator with a pull-out freezer. The bathroom sports a spacious shower with a rainfall showerhead, porcelain toilet, and a medicine cabinet. The primary bedroom sits behind a set of stylish sliding doors and includes a queen-size bed.
All of the features listed above are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Keystone Walkabout travel trailer. To see it in its full glory, click on the video above. It is a full walkthrough of this impressive new entry into the adventurous RV space. And while many of the features were selected to appeal specifically to hunters and anglers, there is still a lot to love for families and other active outdoor enthusiasts, too.
Some of our favorite RVs that we’ve seen over the past year or so have come from the Forest River Campsite Reserve line to travel trailers, which have consistently impressed with their build quality and long list of features. Now, the brand is expanding that line-up to include new fifth-wheel models under the Forest River Campsite Elite name. And as you’ll see in the video above, it looks like these towables will bring even more interior space and upscale living to the campground.
Photo Credit: Forest River
Details on the Forest River Campsite Elite series are still fairly light, with the company’s website promising more information is “coming soon.” But thanks to the video above, we can go inside one of these great-looking RVs now. The YouTube clip shows off the 36RF floor plan, which stretches 42′ 9″ in length, has a GVWR of 16,610 lbs, and comfortably sleeps 9. Notable features include a spacious rear living space, a beautiful island kitchen with a freestanding table and chairs, and a large primary bedroom with a king-size bed. Amidship, you’ll also find a versatile space that includes flip-up bunks, a couch, desk, and more.
Photo Credit: Camping World
Just describing the floor plan doesn’t do it justice, meaning you’ll have to see it for yourself to truly appreciate everything this fifth-wheel brings to the table. Expect more information on this mode in the coming weeks, with an official unveiling likely coming at the Hershey RV Show next month. Right now, it’s safe to say that the new Forest River Campsite Elite line looks very promising, and we can’t wait to see what other floor plans are in the works.
RV camping is one of those activities that’s easy to fall in love with, but can be intimidating to first get started. After all, it’s a great way to travel and explore the country and it’s fun to hang out with friends and family, but finding the best RVs for beginners can be a challenge. In fact, with so many things to consider and models to choose from, it can take weeks or even months to find the right rig for you.
Fortunately, there are some excellent options available for first-time buyers and newcomers to the RV space. To help narrow down your choices, we’ve come up with a list of the best RVs for beginners, along with some tips for what to think about as you get ready to buy.
Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
What to Consider When Buying Your First RV
Purchasing an RV—even a small, beginner-friendly model—is a major investment, requiring not just time and money, but plenty of patience, research, and planning. As you start shopping for you first camper, here are a few things you might want to consider:
What’s Your Budget?
One of the first things you should figure out before you start shopping for an RV is how much money you can afford to spend. Take a look at your monthly budget and determine how much discretionary income you have available. From there, you can decide how much of that money can go to purchasing an RV and your travels in your camper. After all, it doesn’t make sense to spend so much money on a rig that you can’t afford to take anywhere.
We recommend buyers take their time with the shopping process and don’t overspend on their first RV. This is especially good advice for beginners, because you’ll learn a lot in the first few years of RV camping and travel. Buying a less expensive model keeps expenses down while you figure out what you want or need from your next motorhome or travel trailer. That way, when you make your second RV purchase, you won’t mind spending a little more to get something that’s more ideal to your needs.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Motorized or Towable?
One of the first major choices you’ll have to make is deciding whether you want a motorized RV or a towable. There are pros and cons to both, so making this decision isn’t always as easy and straightforward as you might think. For instance, travel trailers and fifth-wheels tend to be less expensive than a motorhome, but they also require a tow vehicle large enough to haul them around. But once you get to the campsite, you can park your trailer and use that tow vehicle to explore the area. That’s not quite as easy when driving a large motor coach.
New or Used?
Much like buying a new car, there are benefits and drawbacks to purchasing new or used. A new RV will come with the latest furnishings, appliances, and technology, not to mention a warranty. But you can probably save a lot of money—and potentially get a larger, more well-equipped vehicle—by purchasing a used model. The downside is that it can be hard to tell how well the previous owners maintained their rig, which can lead to unexpected, and sometimes pricey, issues down the line.
The good news is that there are more reputable places to purchase used RVs than ever before, giving you access to a wider selection of models to choose from. Those outlets usually offer some level of service and warranty, even on preowned RVs. Still, there is nothing quite like owning a new model that you get to be the first to enjoy.
Once you’ve settled on a budget, type of RV you’re interested in, and whether or not you want to buy new or used, you’re ready to start looking for your first camper. Read on for our suggestions for beginner-friendly models you’ll want to have on your short list.
The Best RVs for Beginners
While nearly every RV manufacturer has a model or two designed to ease first-time buyers into camping, some options are better suited for newcomers than others. With that in mind, these are our picks for the best RVs for beginners.
Photo Credit: Jayco
Jayco Jay Flight SLX
The Jayco Jay Flight SLX is a great example of an RV that’s perfect for first-time buyers, but also offers room to grow as they transition into veteran RVers. Versatile and comfortable, this travel trailer offers everything you could ask for in an RV, while remaining simple to tow and simple to set up at the campground. Highlights include hardwood cabinetry, large holding tanks, spacious interiors, a tankless water heater, and bright, airy, and modern décor.
Available in an astounding 31 floor plans, Jayco offers a Jay Flight SLX to meet just about every need. This towable comfortably sleeps 4-10 people depending on the model, and with weights starting at 2,890 lbs., you won’t necessarily need a large tow vehicle to haul it around. Queen beds are standard across the line, and several bunkhouse models are available for families. Pricing starting as low as $17,843, making this travel trailer very budget-friendly, too.
Photo Credit: Forest River
Forest River Campsite Reserve
Another model that’s perfect for beginning RVers, yet offers room to grow, the Forest River Campsite Reserve delivers a lot of bang for your buck. Standard features include nice touches like a tankless water heater, hidden storage behind the entertainment center, back-up cameras, and ample storage inside and out. Larger models offer nice upgrades, including king-size beds, residential-style refrigerators, a fireplace, and more.
Forest River offers the Campsite Reserve in 11 standard floor plans, plus three additional models with lofted sleeping areas. The towables range in size from 21’ 10” to 43’ 4”, with weights between 3,584 – 12,380 lbs., with smaller models being much more beginner-friendly. The rig sleeps 3-10 people and has a starting price of $24,999.
Photo Credit: Keystone
Keystone Coleman Travel Trailers
The Coleman brand has been around for a long time, with several manufacturers building models over the years. Recently, Keystone took up production of this venerable nameplate, bringing improved build quality and an expanded list of standard features along with it. As usual, the goal is to deliver an RV that makes camping simple and fun, without putting a major drain on the wallet. And with the most recent offerings, it’s safe to say that those goals have been achieved.
The Keystone Coleman Travel Trailer line consists of nine different floor plans, with a starting price of just $13,256. All versions are fairly lightweight, with entry-level trailers tipping the scales at 2,408 lbs and stretching 15’ 11” in length, while the largest weighs 6,094 lbs and is nearly 32’ in length. Depending on the layout, you’ll have room for 2-8 people, with queen beds, a dry bath, and even a fireplace found on most versions.
Photo Credit: KZ
KZ Connect Mini
KZ’s entry into the beginner-friendly segment comes in the form of the Connect Mini. This lightweight and affordable model may be small in stature, but it is large on luxuries and amenities. Nice touches like residential-grade linoleum flooring, trimmed slide-out windows, and four-season insulation are somewhat unexpected, as are the laminated sidewalls and one-piece seamless roof membrane, which should add durability and reliability.
While KZ won’t overwhelm you with a lot of floor plans—there are just three options to choose from—it does make each of those models feel unique and distinct. All three include well-appointed interiors, modern kitchens, and cozy living spaces. The Connect Mini can sleep 4-6 people depending on the layout, and the two larger versions include an outdoor kitchen. Pricing starts at $34,688.
Photo Credit: nüCamp
NüCamp TAB Teardrop Trailer
Teardrop trailers have always made good options for beginner RVers, deftly combining simplicity and a lightweight design in a fun, retro-inspired package. Some of the best teardrops on the market come from nüCamp, which has built a very loyal following thanks to its excellent build quality and great customer service.
The company’s TAB series of towables is especially impressive, offering would-be buyers three sizes to choose from at a variety of price points. The TAB 320 is the smallest, although with its spacious sleeping space, central air conditioning, wood cabinets, mini-fridge, and cassette toilet, it isn’t lacking many features. The TAB 360 ups the game with more space and off-road features, while the TAB 400 rounds out the lineup with a larger refrigerator, two-burner stove, and a 24” media center. Pricing starts at $25,999.
Photo Credit: Airstream
Airstream Basecamp
There are few RV brands as iconic and well-known as Airstream, which has been producing outstanding towables for decades. And while the company usually focuses on more upscale models, it does offer a great option for beginners in the form of the Basecamp. This small travel trailer features Airstream’s famous “silver bullet” aluminum exterior, making it durable enough to offer many years of use. A rear hatch makes loading and unloading gear easier, while also providing excellent ventilation and views.
The Basecamp is available in 16’ and 20’ sizes, with two floor plans to choose from. Airstream does offer two special edition models that add features and functionality, but beginners will find the standard models have versatile and comfortable interiors with room for 2-4 people. Features include a large U-shaped dinette, a wet bath, and a comfy main sleeping area. Pricing starts at $48,300.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Solis
Camper vans don’t come much more beginner-friendly than the Winnebago Solis. This easy-driving Class B model rides on the Ram ProMaster chassis, which provides good power and handling, while offering a sense of comfort and confidence when sliding behind the wheel. The rig offers a great introduction to #vanlife, with an interior that includes a wet bath, a galley kitchen, and seating for four, with a removable table.
Winnebago offers the Solis in two floor plans, both of which comfortably sleep four. The vehicle comes with a pop-up sleeping space located on the roof and a primary bedroom in the rear. A 13,5k BTU Truma Combi heating system, paired with outstanding insulation, gives this camper van true four-season credentials, while a 2,800W gas generator comes standard, facilitating off-grid adventures. Pricing starts at $156,254.
Photo Credit: Camping World
Thor Freedom Elite
Sometimes a camper van is a bit on the small side, even for RV newcomers. A Class C model is a nice step up, offering more space without becoming too large. The Thor Freedom Elite is especially well suited for first-time buyers, offering a motorized coach that isn’t large and ponderous. This model is built on the Ford Transit platform, which means in addition to being easy to drive, it is extremely reliable, too.
With eight floor plans to choose from, the Freedom Elite gives RV newbies and veterans a lot to love. The rig provides room for 3-7 people, with most models offering both a queen-size bed and a spacious cabover sleep space. A large dinette is standard across the entire line, and all but the smallest two models include slide-outs for increased interior space. Best of all, this Class C coach has a starting price of $118,860, making it approachable to a wide audience, including buyers who may have thought a motorized camper was out of reach.
Photo Credit: Coachmen
Coachmen Euro
Due to their size and price, Class A models don’t always make the best choices for first-time buyers. But the Coachmen Euro is the exception to this rule. Luxurious and comfortable, the Euro is relatively small compared to most other motorhomes, which helps remove the indication factor that can come with driving a bus-sized RV. Plus, this rig just feels so sleek and modern, it immediately puts just about anyone at ease.
The Euro is available in three floor plans, with the main difference being the sleeping quarters. This coach is specifically designed with two people in mind, with the 25EU model offering a king-size bed, while the 25LE and 25TB both come with two twins. The interior designs vary somewhat, but most of the features are the same across all three options. A posh living room, open kitchen, and a surprisingly large bathroom give this rig an apartment-on-wheels feel. And with a price of $159,999, it isn’t much more expensive than some camper vans.
In September 2011, Bert Taylor decided he wanted a new challenge. In the past, he’d started a company that made furniture assembled with wine corks. He’d been a woodworker who designed Red Wing Shoes stores. And just when he was getting the entrepreneurial itch again, someone told him about “teardrop” trailers from the 1930s.
As Taylor fell in love with the vintage, streamlined aesthetic, he knew designing one would be his next enterprise. When he told his wife he was going to start a new company, she said that was fine—so long as it was up and running by December 31.
She didn’t specify a year.
Bert Taylor in his domain (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)
Taylor ordered build plans online, but wasn’t impressed. “I got about three quarters of the way through,” he says, “and I realized this is not how you should build a trailer.” So he scrapped that project and started on his own designs. By June 2012, he had a working model and took it on the road. Next, he launched a website. Keeping his promise (sort of ), he put the trailer on Craigslist on New Year’s Eve of 2012. It was priced at $9,900. It sold within three hours.
Since then, Vistabule, the company Taylor launched, has moved out of his Minneapolis garage, into an 18,000-square-foot production facility in St. Paul, where it will soon build their one thousandth Vistabule. We spoke to him about canned ham trailers, the importance of light and of the allure of heading out for the horizon.
Q: Where did the inspiration for the Vistabule come from?
A: I had a friend who turned me on to vintage trailers from the 1950s and ’60s, like the Airstreams, the Shastas and Scotties. All these “canned ham” trailers. Then one day, he said: “Do an image search for teardrop trailers.” In the 1930s, people would make these little trailers in their garages. At the time, there was this aerodynamic push for airplanes, locomotives and automobiles to be long and sleek, and the teardrop trailer was from that era. I was just blown away. I thought: “Boy, at some point I’d like to do that.”
Q: But your shape is a little different from the classic teardrop. Why?
A: So much of it is form following function. When I decided I didn’t want to put my feet under the headboard, and I didn’t want to look at the back wall, I realized that if I turned the bed around 180 degrees, that meant the front of the trailer could come down quickly. And through the windshield, you could see not only the horizon, but also the sky. So it became more of a droplet.
It’s always sunny in St. Paul (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)
Q: Windows are a big feature in Vistabule trailers. Where did that come from?
A: Rather than a bed in a drawer, I wanted it to be more of an observatory. Typically a teardrop is very claustrophobic. It’s really just meant to be a place to sleep, and I didn’t want that. I needed a visually permeable space. If I’m in there, I want to feel connected to the outdoors. I want to be able to gaze out at things. Those were my parameters in the design process. And it turns out people really like that.
Q: There are a lot of teardrop companies out there. What makes Vistabule different?
A: We’re an aesthetically oriented trailer company. We don’t want to be generic. For the people who buy them, it’s really important how they look going down the road and how they feel in their mind’s eye. The Vistabule aesthetic is to have a Willys Jeep and be pulling this thing over the horizon. You don’t know where you’re going. You’ve got a cool vintage car and a cool vintage trailer. You’re having an adventure.
Q: What’s your hope for the company?
A: It kind of harks back to Wally Byam, who was the inventor of the Airstream trailer. He wore a beret, and he would take people all over the world on these caravans. There are all these iconic images of dozens of Airstreams in all of these exotic places, like the pyramids or remote regions in Africa. I always think of that when I think of my business. I’d like it to have that kind of following. It wasn’t just about the trailer itself, it was about the community it creates, the camaraderie that comes when you travel together.
Lead assembly technician Alex Monroe at work (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)
Q: Has that happened?
A: There is a community of Vistabule teardrops aficionados and owners who are always talking to each other online. We have rallies where we come together and have a lot of fun. People really love to share their knowledge about how they’ve customized their Vistabules. In the last few years I’ve seen this community grow. It’s become something bigger than the sum of its parts. And that’s something that I didn’t expect when I started this business. It’s been amazing to experience the joy people have for their trailers and their co-Vistabulers
Shop: Vistabule
Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
Founded: 2012
Specialty: Teardrop Trailers
Photo Credit: Vistabule
Take Your Pick
Vistabule sells two models of trailers today. The flagship Vistabule (starting at $23,995) is based on Taylor’s original design, while the more utilitarian Daytripper ($14,995) measures just 12 feet and weighs 1,000 pounds, making it an easy tow with nearly any vehicle.
Photo Credit: Vistabule
Deep Roots
In 2015, the family-owned business moved into an old factory in St. Paul’s Midway neighborhood—one of the first businesses to occupy the space and begin the neighborhood’s revitalization. Today, prospective customers can visit the shop and work one-on-one with Vistabule’s team to design their trailer.
