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9 Best Pop-Up Camper Brands For 2024

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Updated April 15, 2024

Despite their size, some of the best pop-up camper brands will get you out to enjoy nature in a big way. Sure, everyone would like a camper trailer with all the fixin’s, but many underestimate the advantages of pop-up campers.

If I hear anything from all those vloggers and bloggers, they share the same mantra; just get out there and start camping. The best pop-up camper brands are a great way to do that. Whether you are an experienced RVer or a novice, many of the best pop-up camper brands are high quality, affordable, and minivan or SUV-friendly.

In this article, we will review the 10 best pop-up camper brands that are great at utilizing a small space, some that are really unique, and others that allow large families to have a great time outdoors.

What Is A Pop-Up Camper?

Pop-up campers are a type of towable RV that can be collapsed into a compact, aerodynamic form for storage and transport. Then, once you’re at the campsite, they “pop-up,” expanding to their full size to provide you space to eat, sleep, and relax.

In addition to being compact, pop-up campers are often very lightweight, making them a perfect combo with a smaller tow vehicle, such as an SUV or a Subaru. 

Pop-up campers come in a huge variety of sizes and styles, united only by their ability to collapse and expand. Some pop-up campers are “hard-sided” or “hard-shelled,” meaning the collapsible walls of the camper are made of a solid material, such as fiberglass.

Others are “soft-sided” or “soft-shelled,” with the bulk of the camper made from canvas or a similar fabric material. Due to this, camping in a soft-sided pop-up camper is similar to tent camping, which is a plus for many. Indeed, many pop-up campers are little more than a small trailer that expands into a large tent.

One notable type of hard-sided pop-up camper is the A-frame camper. These use solid, collapsible walls that, when expanded, create a triangular roof profile, hence the term “A-frame.”

How Much Do Pop-Up Campers Cost?

Because there’s so much variety in the world of pop-up campers, the exact price range is hard to nail down. Generally speaking, however, they tend to be among the most affordable types of RVs. 

Smaller pop-up campers start around $5,000 and can be even cheaper used. Larger and more feature-rich campers will fall in the $10,000 to $25,000 range, while the most expensive pop-ups can run $40,000 or even more.

These high-end campers often boast features like multiple rooms, off-road capability, off-grid power and water systems, fully equipped kitchens, and more. 

The Best Pop-Up Camper Brands

We picked the best pop-up camper brands on the market and chose one of their popular models to highlight their lineup.

1. Flagstaff T21DMHW

Flagstaff pop-up campers are made by Forest River in Elkhart, Ind. This convenient pop-up camper brand has a simple floor plan but still has a bathroom and shower with a 20-gallon freshwater tank, water heater, and filter.

It features hard-sided walls, rather than canvas, and has a fully enclosed living area with linoleum and maple interior. Add stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen and modern features such as USB charging ports, a Wi-Fi booster, and a Wi-Fi ranger. A satellite hookup and TV outlet can give you a great weekend getaway in a small package both inside and out.

• Open Length:   21 feet
• Closed Length: 20’4″
• UVW:  2,700 pounds
• GVWR:  3,706
• Cargo Weight: 653 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 353
• Sleeps:  2-4

Get upfront price offers on local inventory.

2. Rockwood: Freedom Series 1940LTD

This Rockwood Freedom series model has plenty of room for the family in a small package. With a queen bed on one end and standard size on the other, it will sleep at least four. The convertible dinette has additional sleeping space if needed. You have the option of either cooking indoors or out since you can use the range from the kitchen outside.

You’ll find that this pop-up tent camper brand also features upgraded quilt-topped mattresses, residential-style cabinet doors, wood drawers, and faux leather seating. If you need to camp in the fall, the 20,000 BTU furnace and a 13,500 BTU air conditioner will keep you comfortable during the changing temperatures.

• Open length:   20 feet
• Closed Length: 14 ft, 5 inches
• UVW:  1,608 pounds
• GVWR:  2,486
• Cargo Weight: 683 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 195 pounds
• Sleeps:  4-6

3. Trail Manor Industries 2518 series

Is this a pop-up or a travel trailer? This Trail Manor 2518 series has a unique pop-up design. It expands like a pop-up trailer, but it is a fully enclosed, hard-sided structure. These are relatively light and can be towed with a minivan, crossover, or SUV. They also fit in a standard-size garage and can be set up in a very short time.

Heavy components, like the roof, are separated into two sections and are counterweighted. Once the top is deployed, the beds slide out and lock into place. The bathroom needs to be assembled and the vanity must be moved into place. The sections are then sealed and you are ready to enjoy your living space.

This pop-up camper brand comes in three different model layouts; two beds, a bed and a large dinette, or a bed and a large sofa. It also has a shower, stove, three-way refrigerator, and a bathtub in some models.

• Open length:   21 feet 6 inches
• Closed Length: 18-20 feet
• UVW:  2,580 pounds
• GVWR:  3,595
• Cargo Weight: 720 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 295 pounds

4. Aliner Expedition

The Aliner Expedition is a lightweight, easy-to-tow model with four available floor plans. This is the most spacious of the Aliner pop-ups with about 30 percent more storage than the other models. It has taller countertops and taller beds than other pop-up camper brands. The Expedition has hard sides and amenities include a three-cubic foot refrigerator, a two-burner stove, and a portable cassette toilet.

As a hard-sided pop-up, the Expedition is touted as an easy-set-up pop-up camper. It has Lexan windows, that have insulating properties. The air conditioner is a standard wall-mounted unit placed efficiently and fits well within the cabinetry. Storage of this small pop-up is also a breeze. It can be stored in a standard garage, in the yard with a tarp, or off-site in a small storage facility.

• Open length:   18 feet
• Closed Length: 18 feet
• UVW:  1,850 pounds
• GVWR:  3,500
• Cargo Weight: 1,410 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 240 pounds

5. Black Series HQ12

Black Series Campers are produced by an Australia-based company, but there are dealerships in the US and China. The company has been around for more than 10 years. The HQ-12 model is the ultimate off-roading pop-up camper brand.

It comes with a heavy-duty canvas, gas struts, and a mechanical winch for setting up assistance. The interior comes with a modern wood finish and lots of storage. It also has the option for an annex room.

This pop-up camper model can carry the largest of 12v refrigerators and generators. The slide-out kitchen will be enjoyable for the pickiest of chefs.

• Open length:   19 feet
• Closed Length: 19 feet
• UVW:  5,080 pounds
• GVWR:  6,000
• Cargo Weight: 920 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 508 pounds
• Sleeps:  4

6. Coachmen Clipper : 108ST

Coachmen is a well-known name in the RV industry producing all of the popular RV categories. The Coachmen Clipper has an easy setup, easy-to-use, and easy store pop-up camper brand. In addition, the Clipper boasts a new, patent-pending, glide-n-lock bed system, which supports the beds by cables rather than support poles under the bed.

With a four-layer insulated roof, plus a 20,000 BTU furnace and space for an A/C, you will have no problem camping in comfort in this model. It also boasts a 23-gallon water tank, cassette toilet, 6-gallon water heater, refrigerator, and more. This one also has a queen and a king bed for plenty of sleeping space.

• Open length:   23.5 feet
• UVW:  2,840 pounds
• GVWR:  3,296
• Cargo Weight:   456 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 296 pounds
• Sleeps:  4-8

Get upfront price offers on local new and used inventory.

7. Viking: 2308LS

Coachmen’s Viking pop-up camper brand has a twin-like relationship similar to Flagstaff and Rockwood. Viking’s 2308LS may not be the largest in their lineup, but it still has plenty of room for a small family. The Viking pop-up camper brand features a 23-gallon freshwater tank, a 35 amp converter, the glide-n-lock cable-supported queen beds.

The 12v refrigerator, 20,000 BTU furnace, and optional A/C are those creature comfort features that make this little giant worthy of your shortlist. This Viking also has an optional off-road package with a lifted axle and off-road tires. Using this American pop-up camper brand off-road can make your long boondock RV adventure great with the 1/2 ton cargo weight capacity.

• Closed Length: 17.9 feet
• UVW:  2,221 pounds
• GVWR:  3,223 pounds
• Cargo Weight:   1,002 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 223 pounds
• Sleeps:  4-6

8. Time Out Trailers : Deluxe

Time Out Trailers are designed to be pulled by a motorcycle with ease but can also be towed by a small truck or SUV. The Time Out Deluxe model features a queen-size air mattress, sunscreen-tinted windows, and a pedestal table with the American map. In addition, the designers added a zipper, making it easy to access an indoor cooler from outside. You can also add a portable A/C unit without a problem.

This small pop-up camper brand gives you a sleeping space off the ground when traveling. When the weather’s too bad, the pop-up camper provides covered space under the trailer for storage and a dry place for you to hunker down.

Setup for this small pop-up camper takes about three minutes for one person. The Deluxe has about 16 cubic feet of storage space when the tent is collapsed. That translates to three carry-on-size luggage bags or two large luggage bags.

We recommend using an air mattress, small folding chairs, and the provided table to maximize the storage space. In addition, the 20-pound tongue weight makes it light enough to move by hand.

• Open length:   104 inches
• Closed Length: 65 inches
• UVW:  345 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 20 pounds

9. Opus OP4

The Opus pop-up camper brand has many models to choose from and all are off-road capable with a unique design. All models feature an off-road suspension that travels anywhere your 4WD vehicle can go.

An articulating hitch and a galvanized steel chassis allow you to tackle the toughest roads. Twin shock absorbers and trailing arm independent suspension for each wheel make this a versatile trailer.

All off-road models come with a slide-out stainless steel kitchen. A large external 12v refrigerator, four-burner stove, stainless steel chopping board, wind guards, sink, pantry, and cutlery drawer are all standard.

Opus pop-up camper brand models feature an “air tent” that gives you an 8-foot ceiling and large windows for optimal ventilation. The air tent inflates in less than two minutes. The air inflation system runs off a 12v electric air compressor installed in the trailer.

This Australian pop-up camper brand hit the American RV market with its OP4. This model is great a great pop-up camper for large families. The two double beds on each end sleep 4, and the main floor couch converts into another double sleeper.

• Open length:  20 feet
• Closed Length: 17 feet
• UVW:  3,100 pounds
• GVWR:  4,200 pounds
• Cargo Weight: 1,100 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 400 pounds
• Sleeps: 4-6

Does Jayco Make Pop-Up Campers?

Jayco is a common name in the RV industry with quality travel trailers, toy haulers, fifth wheels, and Class C, and A motorhomes. Although this company left the camper category in 2020, they were an excellent pop-up camper brand in their day. The small, but mighty Jay Sport pop-up camper 12SC would be a perfect option for a first-family camper.

The Jay Sport 12SC is built for the long haul and is touted to withstand wear and tear from regular use. It has a corrosion-resistant frame and scratch-resistant exterior finish. The tent is water-repellent. It comes with an acrylic sink and faucet and a porta-potty storage cabinet.

There are also interior hookups for a freestanding TV and an auxiliary 12v jack for all your entertainment needs. Appliances are plumbed for propane, and it also boasts a 28-gallon water tank.

• Closed Length: 13.6 feet
• UVW:  1,835 pounds
• GVWR:  2,700 pounds
• Cargo Weight: 865 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 140 pounds

How Much Do Pop-Up Campers Weigh?

Just like with price, the weight of pop-up campers can also vary quite a bit thanks to the variety of sizes and styles. 

For a small, basic model, pop-ups can weigh as little as 1,000 pounds or even less. On average, they tend to weigh between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds, perfect for those with limited towing capabilities. 

Of course, certain factors will increase the weight of your pop-up. Extra features, appliances such as cooking equipment, and hard walls can all contribute to a heavier camper.

That said, even at the high end, pop-up campers rarely top 5,000 pounds. As long as you have a half-decent tow vehicle, it should be able to tow nearly any pop-up camper without breaking a sweat. 

Are Pop-Up Campers Good?

Pop-up campers are an excellent option for families. My husband and I had a large pop-up that we stepped up to after many tent camping fails. We loved tent camping but it seemed like it always rained. Then we adopted three kids and knew they needed to have fun tent camping experiences.

So, along with our oldest biological child and a dog or two, we took off into the wilds. And, of course, it rained. Now we had four sweaty kids (ages 7-10), stinky socks, wet dogs, and a lot of complaining, as well as dad yelling, “Don’t touch the sides of the tent” every five minutes. It was no longer fun.

So, we upgraded to a used pop-up camper. I don’t remember the pop-up camper brand or model, but it had a king bed on one end and a queen on the other. The camper’s canvas was replaced, so we were in heaven. We pulled it with our Ford Explorer, and it was a breeze to set up. The camper was easy to store on our own property, so we could fill it up with our gear for a trip and empty it out pretty quickly.

I would definitely recommend a pop-up for a family. Among the many pop-up camper brands, there is a model that is easy to tow with your car, minivan, or fuel-efficient SUV. Don’t forget, you can always try one out with a peer-to-peer RV rental company like Outdoorsy , RVshare , or RVezy .

What is the Easiest Pop-Up Camper to Set Up?

Pop-up campers are generally easy to set up. However, both hard-sided and soft-sided (canvas sides) have their advantages and disadvantages.

Hard-sided campers are generally more noise-resistant and are better insulated from outdoor temperatures. Hard-sided pop-up campers will also offer more privacy, security, and noise reduction. In addition, the spring mechanism or power lift system makes setup or takedown a breeze.

Soft-sided pop-up campers are generally less expensive. Small basic models are ultra-lite, making some camper trailers under 3,000 pounds. They are also safer to tow because of their low profile. With a soft-sided camper, you can also feel like you are roughing it. You can get the feeling of being in a tent while sleeping on a comfortable mattress.

You can also save money by storing your camper in your garage. These are a bit more complicated to set up but it is a skill that can be quickly learned. Once you set up a few times you will be an expert. You must make sure your tent canvas is completely dry before putting it away.

How Long do Pop-Up Campers Last?

Pop-up campers will require more maintenance, particularly the canvas needs to be well maintained. It can rip and become a good environment for mold growth. Mold, mildew, and other growths are avoidable by letting the modern triple-layer nylon completely dry before you pack up.

The mechanisms that raise and lower the pop-up also need regular maintenance to keep working properly. Stored inside and well-maintained, a pop-up camper can last decades. You’ll also find a second stem on your wheels. Adding grease annually through it keeps the ball bearings lubricated.

Your brand-new pop-up camper could be made of vinyl, nylon, or other materials that last better than canvas. If you do have a canvas top you can also waterproof the material for longer wear. If you purchase a used pop-up camper and need to replace the canvas it is between $900-$1,500.

Is a Pop-Up Camper Better Than a Tent?

A pop-up camper can be better than a tent, depending on how you like to camp. For those who want to stay at campgrounds most of the time, there are many pop-up camper brands that I recommend.

Some hard-sided pop-up camper brand models are great for short boondocking experiences. You can stay warm and dry in a pop-up camper. Also, you will have a much more comfortable bed.

Final Words About Pop-Up Camper Brands

Pop-up campers are a great way to get out into nature with a measure of comfort. They can fit into most budgets and can also be pulled by almost any size vehicle. Pop-up campers are an excellent entry-level category to find out if RV camping is for you and if you might want to someday get a larger unit.

Current pop-up camper brands allow you to go off-road and boondock if you want to try other RV lifestyles besides campgrounds. They may require a little more maintenance, but many families have decided to continue the pop-up camper RV lifestyle as weekenders or part-timers.

A pop-up camper was a great way for my relatively large family to experience the great outdoors. As I wrote this story, I was again intrigued by the small but well-apportioned newer pop-campers. Someday I may find myself back to the basics and a little closer to nature as I continue my RV journey.

Related Reading:

– 7 Best Off Road Pop Up Campers – 5 Best Pop Up Campers with a Toy Hauler – Everything You Need to Know About Popup Camper Rentals ~ PLUS Discount Code! – How Much Does a Pop-Up Camper Weigh?

Mike Scarpignato – Bio

Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.

Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.

We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.

We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.

3 thoughts on “9 Best Pop-Up Camper Brands For 2024”

I’m so excited to try out some of these camper brands!

Hope you enjoy checking out these camper brands! Mike

Aliner Classic has freezer and microwave – SO cool! All the space that 1 or 2 people could ever need… but no A/C – damn the bad luck!

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Written by Johnathan R. Smith • April 11, 2020 • 12:56 am • Pop Up Campers

10 Best Pop Up Campers (2021 & 2022)

Pop Up campers, also known as fold down trailers make for a great first option for inexperienced RV owners due to their small size and ease of towing.  Below is a list of some of our favorite pop up campers for 2021 & 2022 . Let’s first review how we selected these pop up campers.

Our Camper Selection Criteria

Quality Sleeping Capacity –  We eliminated trailers that only slept a single person, instead choosing models with a larger sleeping capacity. Modern features –  Selected campers with modern amenities, innovative features and state of the are camping experiences. Upgrade Capability –  We also considered whether owners would have the ability to upgrade their camper’s features as time went on, allowing them to keep it to-date. Included Bathrooms –  We looked for pop ups that had bathrooms or had the option to upgrade the trailer with a toilet and shower. Weather Resistant –  Mold and mildew  are a common problem with pop up campers. We looked for well insulated campers that could keep moisture out.

List of Best Pop Up Campers

• Jayco Jay Sport
• Coachmen Clipper Sport

Forest River Flagstaff

• Sylvansport Go
• Aliner Family Expedition
• Forest River Rockwood

Air Opus 4-Sleeper Camper

• Turtleback Adventure Trail
• Aliner Somerset

Jayco Jay Sport Pop Up Trailer

The Durable Camper Designed To Go Anywhere

The  Jay Sport Camping Trailer by Jayco  packs a powerful punch into a tiny unit.

Jayco offers a five year warranty (bed platform, lift system, tents, floor, roof and frame) with this camper, so owners can trust that it is durable enough to withstand the harshest of conditions.

It’s an incredibly durable pop up camper that’s built to withstand wear and tear that might occur while traveling from one campsite to the other.

Jayco used a corrosion-resistant frame as the base for the unit, then adding a scratch-resistant exterior finish.

We were also impressed with the DuraTek tent. The  tent is water-repellent , which helps keeps owners dry in rainstorms.

There is also an acrylic sink and faucet inside of the camper, along with a Porta-Potty storage cabinet.

The appliances are pre-plumbed for propane.

Although propane does not come included with the camper, owners benefit significantly by purchasing a canister.

Furthermore, there is an interior hookup for a freestanding TV and an auxiliary 12V jack, making entertainment accessible for campers.

Key Features

• 2018 Trailer Life “Gold Award Winner”
• 28-gallon water tank with demand water pump
• Four floor plans available
• Travel Length = Up to 15’ 6.”
• Campsite Length = Up to 21’ 6”
• Travel Height = Up to 57.”
• Interior Height = Up to 80.5”
• Exterior Width = 85”
• Weight = 1895 pounds
• Queen Front Bed
• Full Rear Bed

Coachmen Clipper Sport Pop Up Camper

Why You Will Like the Coachmen Clipper Sport

The Pop Up Camper with Enough Choices to Fit Everyone’s Needs

If you’re someone who would like a few options when choosing a pop-up camper, you’ll want to check out the Clipper Sport Pop-Up Camper by Coachmen.

Prospective owners can choose from 15 different floor plans when buying a Clipper.

Coachmen invested a lot into the design of the  Clipper Pop-Up Camper , hoping to make the experience easier for its customers.

And, it shows.

The Clipper is incredibly easy to store and use, which makes it useful for novice campers.

Additionally, Coachmen sought to make the camper easier for users to tow, creating a streamlined, aerodynamic design when folded.

Some of the larger floor plans can sleep up to seven individuals. In addition to multiple beds, there are also residential counter tops, walnut cabinets, and LED lighting.

These features are uncommon in a pop-up camper, and they could help create a more luxurious experience for campers.

Both novice and experienced campers should find this practical comfort worthwhile.

• 23-gallon below-floor tank
• 16-gallon above-floor rank
• 16 floor plans available
• Travel Length = Up to 18’ 9”
• Campsite Length = Up to 23’ 5”
• Travel Height = Up to 4’ 10.”
• Weight = 2,396 pounds
• King Size Insulated Bunk – Front
• Queen Size Insulated Bunk – Rear

Why You Will Like This Hard Sided Pop Up from Forest River

The Basic Camper with Modern Amenities

Those in search of a small, convenient pop-up camper will want to check out the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Sided Pop-Up Camper from Forest River (Floor plan T21DMHW).

This RV features a rather simple floor plan that still manages to squeeze in a bathroom and a shower.

This model stood out because it featured a simplistic design that allowed users to make adjustments as needed.

The Flagstaff Pop-Up Camper is a bit unique in that it features hard-sided walls, different from other fold down campers that are canvas.

The camper is large enough to feature a fully-enclosed living area with linoleum and maple interior.

There are also stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen.

Campers will have access to a shower, as well as a water heater and filter.

There are also modern features included in its design, such as USB charging ports, a Wi-Fi booster, and a Wi-Fi ranger.

Forest River also provided campers with a satellite hookup and TV outlet in case they wish to remain plugged in while they are outdoors.

This is definitely considered a small pop up camper but will still comfortably sleep up to 3 people.

• 20-gallon freshwater tank
• Seven floor plans available
• Travel Length = Up to 20’ 10”
• Campsite Length = Up to 20’ 10”
• Travel Height = Up to 5’ 8”
• Exterior Width = 84”
• Weight = Up to 2,700 pounds
• Hitch weight 353 lb.
• Interior floor lights
• Charging ports for USB
• Hard wall shower
• Residential flush toilet
• Power roof lift

Sylvansport Go Pop Up Camper

Why You Will Like the Sylvansport Go Pop-Up Camper

An Excellent Pop-Up Camper for Novices

If you’re in search of your first pop-up camper, the Go Model from Sylvansport could be an excellent choice.

This camper weighs in at only 840 pounds and sleeps up to four in a single bedroom. Furthermore, there are only two floor plans available, making it easier for new campers to choose a design.

The tent trailer is completely waterproof, able to handle the harshest of conditions.

The  Sylvansport Go  is a simple option that’s easy to haul.

The camper comes with insulating bed platforms that work well in colder temperatures.

Customers can also elect for optional features like a self-inflating air mattress pad.

This camper doesn’t provide fancy bells and whistles like cabinets, but it does come with stargazing windows and awnings.

It’s ideal for those looking to escape to the outdoors.Sylvansport calls this pop-up camper the “Swiss Army Knife” of trailers because of its ability to carry anything.

Whereas some camper trailers can only tow the recreational vehicle, which is attached, Go owners can remove the tent easily so that they have a versatile trailer attached to their car.

Customers have said they’ve used this to haul supplies from the store and carry things like bikes.

• There is no water tank with this pop up tent
• Two floor plans available
• Travel Length = 143”
• Campsite Length = 154”
• Travel Height = 53”
• Exterior Width = 124”
• Weight = 840 pounds

Aliner Family Expedition Pop Up Trailer

Why You Will Like the Aliner Pop Up Trailer

A Great Family Pop-Up Camper

If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line family camper and don’t mind spending a little more than your average pop up, you may want to consider this hard sided pop up camper from Aliner.

The Aliner Family Expedition comes with some great standard features such as an indoor toilet, outdoor kitchen, fold away dinette and several fold out beds. There is also an additional bed on the other end of the trailer.

• Eleven-gallon fresh water tank.
• Eleven floor plans available
• Travel Length = 18’
• Campsite Length = Up to 18’
• Travel Height = 57”
• Exterior Width = Up to 84”
• Weight = Under 2,000 pounds
• Fold out bed.
• Off-road axle.
• LED interior lighting.
• Portable solar panel outlet.

Forest River Rockwood Pop-Up Camper

The Camper Built For Frequent Use

Forest River is a trustworthy and reliable RV brand, so it’s no surprise to see two of their models on our list. This pop-up camper, which comes available in fifteen different floor plans, can sleep up to six people.

If you frequently go camping with your family or friends, this could be an excellent option.

The  Rockwood Pop-Up Camper Series from Forest River  features sleek and spacious designs that are excellent for group outings.

For instance, campers will find a maple interior with tinted vinyl windows inside of the camper.

They’ll also see things such as USB charging ports and other modern offerings.

Customers could also elect for upgrades like a solar panel, bike rack , or 15,000 BTU air conditioner.

We also liked that Forest River stressed safety when designing the Rockwood camper.

They included a 12 Volt safety breaker along with a carbon monoxide detector.

It’s clear that this camper is best-suited for those who will use it frequently and seek to test its limits.

There is also an electric water pump, which is more convenient than hand-pump models.

Lastly, all appliances in the unit are stainless steel.

• Electric Water Pump
• Hot Water Package includes an outdoor shower
• Residential flush toilet inside a cabinet
• Fifteen floor plans available
• Travel Length = Ranging between 17’ 1” and 20’ 10.”
• Campsite Length = Ranging between 17’ 1” and 20’ 10.”
• Travel Height = Either 5’ 1” or 5’ 8.”
• Weight = Up to 3721 pounds

The Easiest Pop Up Camper to Setup

The Air Opus Pop up trailer breaks away from the traditional mold of pop up camper builds . Rather than utilizing a cranking system and telescoping poles, the air opus uses its own air pole technology to complete the entire setup process in only 90 seconds.

Depending on the style of pop up camper you buy this process can sometimes take up to 30-45 minutes to complete.

• All terrain Chassis.
• Off Road tires.
• 90 Second Air inflation tent.
• 30 second deflation.
• Unloaded weight 2870 lbs.
• 40 gallon water system .
• Additional load capacity 1100 lbs.
• 8 foot ceilings

Turtleback Adventure Trail Pop Up Camper

The Best Pop Up Trailer for Off Road Expeditions

If you’re looking for a small pop up camper that’s built to withstand harsh conditions and off road camping the Adventure Trail camper from Turtleback will suit your needs well.

The Adventure trail camper has a wide range of custom options available so that you can outfit it to your required specifications. Standout upgrades include solar, a refrigerator, Inverters, and burner stoves.

• 21 gallon water tank.
• Steel frame.
• Electric brakes.
• 50 cubic feet of storage space.
• 200 square feet of living space (enclosed).
• Kitchen with stove.

Aliner Somerset Pop Up Camper

Easy to setup camper with kitchen and sound system

The Aliner Somerset trailer is definitely a competitor for the highest rated pop up camper. With double walled galvanized steel side paneling and a stainless steel lift system, the Aliner Somerset is built to outlast other campers.

The frame of the trailer is also much stronger than other models because the frame is similar to a travel trailer frame and not your typical pop up camper frame.

• 35 Amp converter; charger included.
• 6 gallon water heater.
• 2 burner interior stove.
• 3-way refrigerator.
• Interior/exterior sound system.
• 16,000 BTU furnace.
• Curve toilet.
• Outside grill.
• Optional A/C kit.

We believe that the pop up campers on the list above are some of the best available campers on the market. The information provided should be used for informational purposes only. Our opinions are our own. Please seek advice from your local dealership and verify the accuracy of the information prior to making a purchase.

Pop Up Camper Quick Stat Comparison

Benefits of pop up campers.

Affordable.  Its not hard to find a quality pop up camper for under $10,000. You can even find a used camper that’s in great shape for under $7,000. Lightweight.  A lighter trailer means its easier to tow and will help you save money on gas cost. Beginner Friendly.  Due to the fact that pop up campers are small, weigh less and are closer to the ground they are much easier to pull. They also don’t come with the high number of features that a travel trailer or larger RV might have. This means less of a learning curve when operating and owning a pop up camper. Storage.  Because pop up campers fold down to a small size they require less clearance for storage and are much easier to store when not using. Many owners even store there camper in there garage when can save them hundreds of dollars per year on storage fees. Easy to Clean.  Pop up trailers fold down to a compact size making it much easier to clean the exterior of the camper.

Should You Buy A Pop Up Camper?

If you’re someone who loves the outdoors and wants a camper without all the complications and costs associated with a more expensive RV, you’ll want to consider purchasing a pop-up camper.

These recreational vehicles can enhance a camping experience, providing individuals with a place to sleep and potentially bathe.

They are lightweight and collapsible and owners should have no problem attaching them to their vehicle.

We genuinely believe that no matter if you’re an experienced camper or looking to purchase your first trailer and pop up camper can be a great choice.

What To Look For When Buying A Pop Up Trailer

Common Pop Up Camper Questions

A. Yes, Pop up Campers are small trailers that can be towed by a large number of vehicles. They are a great first option for beginner RV owners.

A. Yes, Pop up campers can make for a great family trailer. They are easier to store than a regular travel trailer and many of them are spacious enough to comfortable sleep a family of 5-6 people.

A. There are a few advantages to hard sided campers. Hard sided campers keep up better than canvas and are easier to clean. The’re also not prone to tears like a canvas sided trailer. Another advantage is that hard sided campers offer better insulation.

A. Yes, some do have bathrooms and showers even. We actually included a few different options in the list above.

About the Author / Johnathan R. Smith

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13 Best Pop-Up Campers for Singles, Couples, and Families

Published on December 30th, 2020 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on March 19th, 2024

Pop-up campers are a great alternative to full-size campers and motor homes, and still provide an excellent RV adventure. This is especially true if you are not ready to buy a bigger camper just yet. Here is my list of the Top 13 Best Pop-Up Campers so you can hit the open road.

I have done well over 50 hours of research to come up with this list. The research included reviewing forums, and RV review sites and reaching out to owners and to the manufacturers in situations where we have questions that were not answered on their websites.

Pop-up campers are small and don’t have slides but can easily be towed by a small SUV or car. They’re great for beginner RVers too!

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1. Sylvan Sport GO

The SylvanSport Go camper is one of the nicest and most versatile tent trailers we have come across.

There is a lot to like about this camper besides the great looks. It is extremely versatile and is considered the “Swiss Army Knife” of folding tent campers.

The SylvanSport GO can be used in 3 modes. “Camper Mode” allows you to deploy the tent and awning which gives you ample sleeping space, lots of headroom, and a great awning that is super easy to set up.

In “Gear Hauler Mode” you have room on top for kayaks, boards, bikes, or any other combination of gear you want to take with you. This is a great mode if you are just going down to the lake or beach for a day.

If you need to haul appliances or pick up a load of supplies from your local home store the “Utility Mode” lets you do just that.

This GO has the weight capacity to haul quite a bit of stuff. The living space is small but very useable. Excellent tent camping model than can easily be stored in your garage.

The low profile combined with the lightweight makes it a cinch to tow with just about any car or truck. The SylvanSport GO is practically zero maintenance, and it’s built to last right here in America. Unfortunately, no bathroom as with many pop up campers.

2. Forest RV River Flagstaff Tent Campers

Flagstaff, a division of Forest River RV has a line of tent camping trailers that are great looking and affordable. We like the interior color palette of these tent campers.

They offer the MAC and the High Wall hard-sided campers. The MAC series is more of your typical folding camper whereas the High Wall series has the amenities you find in a typical camper, including a shower and cassette toilet, and a very well-done interior decor all wrapped up in a lightweight camper. Also includes a sink and dinette.

As an option, you can get a hot water heater package that includes an outside shower, and if you want to install a solar panel this lightweight pop-up is solar prepped.

The sides extend like a slide-out to give you a very good sleeping space.

Since it employs a canvas tent you should check out what it takes to clean and maintain a pop-up canvas tent.

3. Forest River RV Flagstaff Hard sides

There’s more to this RV brand than just tent campers. They also manufacture hard-sided trailers. Don’t let the size fool you into thinking this is a cramped little trailer.

You’ll find floor plans that are over 20 feet in length when fully opened.

These hard-side campers give you a vacuum bonded fiberglass exterior that is easy to set up. What’s great is you still get the towing and storage advantages of a tent camper.

4. Coachmen Clipper 806XLS

The Coachmen Express 806XLS is a cool-looking camper with a rear tent that expands to add more space.

Towing the Clipper is easy due to its aerodynamic styling, and its super-lightweight. It features a Wide Trac Ultra Lube Spring Axle suspension, heavy duty tongue jack, and electric brakes. 

The inside is comfortable, with all the comforts of home including a full bed, two bunks, sink, water pump, two burner stove, refrigerator, and furnace.

5. Aliner Hard-Side

The company Aliner has 3 model types in its lineup. The Aliner is a hard-side camper and the Somerset is a tent camper.

The Ascape is a teardrop unit and one of the nicest folding campers that we’ll cover in another article. Here we’ll discuss the Aliner. The Aliner hard side comes in 3 sizes and 3 equipment levels.

You’ll find a Small (10.5-foot box on a 14-foot frame), a Medium (12-foot box on a 15-foot frame), and a Large (14.5-foot box on an 18-foot frame). The equipment levels are Standard, Upgraded, and Deluxe. Standard equipment is essentially electricity with water hookups.

The Upgraded equipment level gives you a propane system and more complex plumbing that includes holding tanks.

Finally, the Deluxe equipment package includes everything in the Upgraded plus it adds, a stove, large fridge, outside electrical receptacle, and stabilizer jacks on all 4 corners. However, no bathroom.

Can easily be towed by a minivan, small car, or SUV and can fit into just about any campsite.

If you are interested I wrote a review of the Aliner Expedition .

6. Aliner Somerset

The Somerset is a very well-equipped camper and one of the best in the industry and one of the nicest pop-up campers I’ve seen. Dozens of standard amenities make this dual-tent a perfect choice for a family.

There are 4 models in the Somerset line-up including the high-end Utah model which we particularly like. Definitely one of the best pop-up campers and built for comfort. Has good storage space and a small kitchenette

7. Air Opus Camper OP-Lite Off-Road

If you are looking for a compact trailer that is incredibly durable and has a beefed-up suspension that lets you take it just about anywhere then you need to take a look at the OP-Lite.

It uses AIR Tent inflation technology to quickly set up the tent portion of the trailer. It’s great for camping.

This trailer is versatile and rugged. This little camper is off-road-ready via its heavy-duty independent suspension which has been engineered to go anywhere you 4WD can go.

It also is equipped with all-terrain tires, a front rock guard, and underbody armor with diamond plating. No bathroom is available with the Opus floor plan.

It is pretty light coming in at just around 2,380 pounds. Here is a list of 15 pop-ups and their weight.

8. Taxa Outdoors Cricket

The Taxa Cricket is a unique-looking camper that is both lightweight and rugged. It can be towed by many 4-cylinder engines. It’s big enough to sleep, two adults and two kids.

The roof on the Cricket allows cross-ventilation but if you need it a little more cooler you can add an optional 5,000 BTU air conditioner. It has excellent features and specifications.

9. Forest River RV Rockwood ESP

The ESP (Extreme Sports Package) by Forest River is a folding tent trailer designed for active couples and families. If you are your family are into mountain biking, kayaking, or surfing the ESP allows you to carry your gear with little hassle, so you can make the most of your outdoor experience.

10. Chalet XL

The Chalet is an A-frame trailer available in 3 models that offer some unique amenities typically not found in this type of camper. The Chalet XL has a permanent queen bed which is very nice for this type of camper.

It is one of the lighter models in our Top 10 lineup.

Once extended you will find 8-feet of headroom which is quite high. The kitchen area boasts a large galley, residential height countertops, and plenty of windows and skylights to provide ample light in all directions.

Overall, the Chalet XL is an excellent camper that is easy to tow, easy to store, and has very low maintenance.

Their Patented Electronic Roof Lift System makes for a quick set-up. Optionally available on this camper are a wet bath and a dormer, which are excellent features to add. Easy for a camping setup.

11. Trail Manor 2518

If you are looking for a small pop-up camper the Trail Manor 2518 is not it. As a matter of fact, you are not going to find thin walls or canvas walls. What Trail Manor offers is expandable trailers with a hard roof and enough room so you can expect great comfort.

The 2518 series is a solid camper with a very unique design. It comes with many standard features such as rubber torsion axles with independent suspension, a hard top, a 20-gallon fresh water tank, a dry bath, and a cargo carrying capacity of 720 lbs. Air conditioning is available as an option with a low-profile air conditioner.

The Trail Manor is one of those pop-up that is good for almost year-round camping as it is well-designed for inclement weather and the alls help prevent loud outside noises.

12. Jayco Jay Sport

The 2019 Jayco Sport as a camper trailer is one of my favorites. It has a lot going for it including that you can tow it with many models of small cars, and it has less weight than many of the campers on this list.

The 10SD for example only weighs 1,720 lbs. If you want the best price for the Jayco Sport there are many used pop-ups of this model in availability. At the time of this article, RVTrader had 15 in inventory available all at affordable prices. To find the nearest ones to you just search by zip code.

13. Turtleback Expedition Trailer

What’s not to like about the Turtleback Expedition trailer. When it comes to recreational vehicles the Turtleback is like no other. This pop-up tent camper is designed for rugged outdoor use.

The Turtleback Expedition comes with features designed to give you optimum comfort and performance in the mist out of way places. You would think they were building a 5th wheel.

You’ll find standard features such as a birch kitchen, 42-gallon fresh water tank, Timbren Axl, welded 2 x 3 galvanized tube steel chassis, running lights, signal light, and much more.

If you want to upgrade well you can do that as well with three upgrade packages. You can tow the expedition with a 4 door jeep, Toyota FJ, or a larger SUV or truck. You can learn more about the Expedition on their website .

They do have financing available if you are interested. Just know the cost will go up dues to finance charges and fees.

Top FAQs About Pop-Up Campers

Below you’ll find some questions people ask about tent campers.

Can You Pull a Pop-Up Camper With a Car?

There is a handful of pop-up campers that can be pulled by a car. Keep in mind cars are not the most suitable vehicle to tow a camper, however, some of the ultralightweight tent trailers are easy to tow with a car. Always check the towing capacity of the car and make sure it is higher than the GVWR of the camper.

Are Pop-Up Campers a Good Investment?

If your intent is to buy a pop-up camper so you can sell it for more money at a later date then no a pop-up camper is not a good investment. A camper is just like any other vehicle or RV it will depreciate in value as soon as you drive it off the lot.

However, if you are buying a camping trailer to create memories with your loved ones and friends then yes a pop-up is a great investment. RVing is an activity that is affordable, and fun to do. It will surely create memorable times that will last your entire lifetime.

Pop-Up Campers Conclusion

As with any purchase, do your research before plunking money down on a camper. The prices shown above are average. Several of the pop-up campers have newer features like Bluetooth speakers and USB ports, and several offer different floor plans, as well as a water tank that can hold a gallon or more water.

If a pop-up is not something you are interested in how about a regular size camper from one of these top travel trailer brands?

If you’re still not convinced, check out this article I wrote on the pros and cons of owning a pop-up camper .

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8 Best Pop Up Campers: Top Buying Guide

• Length: 10’
• UVW: 1,230 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood R19OTG is as close to tent camping as you can get in an RV. New in 2024, Rockwood’s two “Off The Ground” pop ups bring it back to the basics. Small, lightweight, and easy to set up, the Rockwood R19OTG is about as simple as you can get. 

It cozily sleeps three and offers unique lookouts through the walls. While it doesn’t offer a bathroom, it does offer some features like a roof-mounted electric fan, USB ports, counterspace, and storage. For those looking to make the smallest upgrade from tent camping, look no further than the Off The Ground series. 

The second Off The Ground pop up, the R16OTG is a smaller unit when collapsed but offers more sleeping space when expanded. 

Forest River Rockwood Freedom 1940LTD

• Length: 13’9”
• UVW: 1,685 pounds
• Sleeps:  

Forest River’s Rockwood Freedom 1940LTD is a compact pop up camper that’s easy to tow thanks to its length of just under 14 feet and dry weight of 1,685 pounds. This model sleeps up to five with two beds and a folding dinette. A carry-out range makes cooking outside the unit easy and practical. But head inside to complete your prep and access a much more robust kitchen area.

While not drastically heavier, the 1940LTD marks a difference between the “Off The Ground” units because it includes running water, power, and propane. You get more amenities but also more weight and cost—that’s part of the tradeoff. The 1940LTD has a mini-fridge, sink, 20K BTU furnace, and 20-pound propane tank, so you’re ready to enjoy the finer comforts of camping.

Coachmen Clipper Sport 108ST

• Length: 16’10”

Slightly larger and able to sleep more, the Coachmen Clipper Sport 108ST includes a similar but more expansive layout than the Rockwood Freedom. Side tent extensions allow it to sleep another camper and provide more interior comforts.

The 108ST includes modern conveniences like a sink with running water, a two-burner propane stovetop, a 12V refrigerator, a cassette toilet, a furnace, and even an outdoor shower. While only about 600 pounds heavier, the Clipper Sport offers far more comforts and space, though your price increases, too. 

pop up campers are a favorite among off-grid and off-road RVers, and the Clipper Sport 108ST includes some baseline exterior features like radial tires, electric brakes, diamond-plated front and rear walls, and a tubular steel frame. An off-road package includes 15” tires and a lifted axle. 

Forest River Rockwood 1910ESP

• Length: 16’9”
• UVW: 2,341 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood 1910ESP is a fold-down pop up camper that sleeps up to five people. This “Extreme Sports Package” pop up provides basic amenities to make your camping experience easy and relaxing, with a touch of adventure. You get a three-burner stove, sink, portable toilet, and a refrigerator. Plus, you get an outdoor griddle for cooking outside. 

The 1910ESP gains about four feet in length when extended. Ample seating at the 40” by 74” dinette means there’s plenty of space at the breakfast table. There’s even an A/C wiring kit to keep you comfortable if you’re camping in the heat of summer. The Extreme Package comes with 15” tires and a 200W solar panel with an inverter. Note, with the added powered appliances, stove, and running water, the Rockwood 1910ESP significantly goes up in weight compared to its counterparts. It’s still very towable for many SUVs and trucks. 

Forest River Rockwood 2280BHESP

• Length: 18’7”
• UVW: 2,578 pounds

Another Extreme Sports Package model from Forest River, the Rockwood 2280BHESP sleeps up to five and provides a unique storage option with a 28-inch by 84-inch metal decking that is great for bikes, firewood, inflatable boats, and all sorts of other toys. Inside, you get plenty of interior dining and sleeping space with large slide-outs, a dinette, and a gaucho-style couch. Cook a meal inside the camper on its three-burner stove or outside on the griddle. 

The 2280BHESP offers ample room inside for cooking, eating, and sleeping, as well as a cassette toilet and shower. 

Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC

• Length: 21’3”
• UVW: 3,562 pounds

Another excellent Forest River model, the Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC offers plenty of sleeping space for seven people and features a slide-out that provides a place for the whole family to eat. Speaking of eating, preparing dinner for your family and guests is easy, thanks to a gas oven and three-burner stove. There’s even a double sink to make doing dishes easier. And if that weren’t enough, this model even includes a toilet and wanded shower.

For sleeping arrangements, enjoy heated mattresses for those cold nights when the extra warmth matters. 

The Flagstaff HW29SC provides four bays of exterior storage to help keep your campsite organized and clutter-free. Cook on the exterior griddle and enjoy the shade of this unit’s 13’ awning for maximum outdoor entertainment. 

Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST

• Length: 18’4”
• UVW: 2,120 pounds

Let’s explore a hybrid pop up camper, the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST . This pop up incorporates the security of a travel trailer’s exterior with the space-saving convenience of a tent camper. In a few steps this flat, compact trailer turns into a hard-sided A-frame camper that comfortably sleeps three. 

The T12RBST is Flagstaff’s smallest hard-side pop up, but don’t underestimate its capabilities. Its weight and size make it easy to tow, and inside, you’ve got an upgraded three-burner stove, a 45-inch by 80-inch dinette, and a refrigerator. Keep your things stowed in the easy-to-reach storage trunk and head outside to cook on the griddle when you need a break. 

The amenities improve, too. Enjoy a microwave, cable TV hookups, and wood drawers with full-extension metal guides. This is a fantastic first RV for anyone looking to get their toes wet without too much investment. 

Aliner Scout

• Length: 15’

The 2024 Aliner Scout is a hard-side a-frame pop up camper with optional dormers that create additional window space. It’s quite towable at only 1400 pounds and can be stored in your garage, setting up and folding down easily, in as little as thirty seconds, according to Aliner. 

Inside the Scout, you’ll find plenty of storage and electrical outlets to bring along any appliances you may want. While the Scout doesn’t include a stovetop or refrigerator, the extra storage and outlets mean you can decide how many conveniences you want to include. The Scout has the option of including an electric A/C unit. 

This is a fairly affordable and very towable unit great for someone looking to downsize or looking for their first RV.

What Is a Pop Up Camper?

Pop up campers are collapsible, lightweight RV types that, when folded down, are secure and compact for travel. At the campsite, they usually feature expandable sides and a roof that “pops up.” This provides plenty of living space while camping but keeps things compact when you’re not. Pop up campers usually include basic amenities such as beds, a small refrigerator, a stovetop, a dining table, and storage compartments.

Pop up campers usually sleep between two and six people and can weigh as little as 280 pounds. Depending on the size, however, they can weigh as much as 3,700 pounds.

Do You Want a Pop Up Camper with a Bathroom?

Believe it or not, some pop up campers provide bathrooms. Plenty of options do have them, including some of the options on our list.

Types of Pop Up Camper Bathrooms

Pop up campers with bathrooms usually provide two options, either portable or permanent.

• Portable bathrooms: These fixtures usually include a chemical toilet or portable RV toilet.
• Permanent bathrooms: If a pop up camper has a permanent bathroom, it’s typically a “wet bath” that features a combination of a shower and a standard flush toilet. Wet bath fixtures are enclosed spaces where all elements are contained within a single, water-tight compartment. They usually don’t have hard walls. Instead, a shower curtain offers privacy and helps keep water from splashing everywhere.

Types of Pop Up Campers

Pop up campers come in several sizes and feature different amenities depending on their size and shape. Most pop up RVs can sleep anywhere from two to six, although things might feel a little cramped as you add more people.

Tent Trailers

Pop up tent trailers are usually compact, lightweight trailers. They feature canvas or vinyl sides and roofs. These collapsible walls allow for easy storage, and they’re some of the most popular options due to their portability and price.

High Wall Campers

High-wall campers feature tall sides that extend up to around five feet. The walls are usually constructed from vinyl or canvas. High-wall campers tend to offer more space than tent trailers. They’re also great at providing extra comfort because they can block wind, rain, and noise.

An A-frame pop up camper gets its name from the distinctive roofline that forms when the camper is fully open. They provide more interior space than tent trailers and other camping options. Their triangular shape can even provide wind resistance when camping in areas with strong winds.

Pros and Cons of Pop Up Campers

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of pop up campers.

Pros of Buying a Pop Up Camper

• Affordability: Pop up campers are less expensive than other types of RVs, making them an accessible option for families and budget-conscious travelers.
• Lightweight and towable: Pop up campers are often very lightweight and can be towed by mid-size vehicles, making them easy to transport to campsites. Not sure if your vehicle can haul a camper? Use our tow guide and consult your owner’s manual.
• Space-saving: Pop up campers fold down into a compact size for easy storage when not in use.
• Enhanced camping experience: Pop up campers can improve the camping experience by providing a comfortable bed, protection from the elements, and a convenient setup and tear-down process.
• Fuel efficiency: Pop up campers typically weigh less and are smaller than other RVs, which can lead to better fuel efficiency.

Cons of Buying a Pop Up Camper

• Limited space: These campers are often smaller than other types of RVs and may not provide as much living space or storage for longer trips.
• Less durability: pop up campers are generally built with lightweight materials, which may not hold up well over time in extreme weather or heavy use.
• Limited amenities: Campers typically have fewer amenities than other RVs, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or entertainment systems.
• Maintenance: Pop up campers require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. This includes cleaning, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper function of the electrical and plumbing systems.

Who Are Pop Up Campers Best For?

These small campers are best for those who want a lightweight camping option that doesn’t require towing a large trailer. They’re also great for families who want extra space and amenities but who don’t need the full size of a travel trailer or fifth wheel camper. If you take weekend excursions or occasional week-long camping trips to a single campsite for an extended period, pop- up campers might be one of the best RV types for you.

Compare Pop Up Campers for Sale

Pop up campers provide an excellent entry point for people who want to go a step beyond tent camping but aren’t ready or willing to invest tens of thousands of dollars in a large RV. They’re a more compact experience, but many of the best models don’t sacrifice quality. In addition to affordability, a good pop up camper often does not require investing in a heavy-duty SUV or truck to transport it. You can tow with smaller vehicles like mid-size SUVs.

If you’ve never seen a pop up camper up close and are considering a purchase, visit your nearest Camping World location today. We can answer your questions about all aspects of RV and camper ownership, including convenient RV financing .

You can also explore Camping World’s selection of pop up campers online .

Pop Up Camper FAQs

To round out your knowledge, here are some of the common questions about this type of RV:

How long does it take to set up a pop up camper?

Most pop up campers are fairly simple to set up, but it’s recommended that you practice at home to familiarize yourself with the process before taking it to the campsite. Setting up can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your familiarity with the process and the type of pop up. For more detailed instructions, be sure to check out our guide on how to set up a pop up camper .

Is it worth getting a pop up camper?

If you’re on the fence about buying an RV or don’t have the towing capacity for a travel trailer, a pop up camper might be a great option. These compact models have the added benefit of being towable by some cars and mid-size SUVs. If you’re an occasional camper who doesn’t need much space, pop up campers can be an excellent entry point to RV life.

How much is a pop up camper? 

Pop up campers can range in price from $6,199 all the way up to $25,000. What you pay for a pop up camper largely depends on its age, features, and condition.

What is the highest-rated pop up camper?

Camping World sells pop up camper models from many leading brands, including Forest River, Jayco, and Starcraft. Many reviewers and industry experts recommend Forest River brand models for their quality and features.  

Do pop up campers have showers and toilets?

Some models of pop up camper do have showers and toilets. Because they’re small, however, these fixtures are often separated from the rest of the camper by a curtain to create a “wet space,” not a full-size room.   

Do pop up campers have AC and heat?

Some pop up camper models do have limited heating and A/C options built-in, or they may have the option to add portable heaters. Research the make and model of your pop up camper before you buy it to ensure it meets your needs.

Can you use a pop up camper in winter? 

While some pop up campers are better suited for cold climates than others, a furnace is an important requirement for any camper for winter or cold camping. Additionally, hard side pop ups are better suited for cold and wet conditions, especially those like Flagstaff and Rockwood that come with Azdel composite panels on their walls.

Camping in below-freezing temperatures is not recommended for pop ups due to the risk of freezing water, though some may be equipped with accessories to prevent this. Check with the manufacturer to learn their recommendations for winter and cold weather camping. 

Do you have any questions about pop up campers? Share them in the comments below.

• Comment (3)

Any tent trailers that have ‘north/south’ sleeping area?

One pro of a pop-up not listed here is that when camping in late July in a campground without electric hookups to run an air conditioner, the top half of the camper can be unzipped for airflow, reducing, or even eliminating the need for that A/C.

Great advice. Suggestion for a new lightweight pop up? I use to have a Coleman back in the 90’s but see they don’t make them now. Best one to get now?

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11 Best Pop-Up Campers for Easy Mobile Camping

Posted by Arthur McMahon October 14, 2020 Updated January 17, 2022

Pop-up campers provide the ideal combination of size, comfort, and convenience perfect for adventures.

Sometimes, picking the right travel vehicle can be a bit of a Goldilocks situation. Had Goldilocks been a backcountry road warrior, she would have been in a similar situation as many outdoor enthusiasts: if a campervan is much too small, but an RV is much too big, then a pop-up camper would be just right for her adventures.

When mulling over how much comfort matters, you’ll also have to consider upfront purchase cost, fuel efficiency, towing weight, complexity, off-road ability, and storability in the off-season.

A pop-up camper is the perfect in-between when you want the comfort of an RV but convenience of a campervan. Towable pop-up campers are much more compact than large RVs, making them easier to tow, but  they’re roomier than a van. Truck bed pop-up campers are even more efficiently packaged.

Below, you’ll find a rundown of the best pop-up campers, written by an overlanding expert. For an even more compact campsite sleeping solution, take a look at this list of the best rooftop tents .

The Best Pop-Up Campers

When shopping for a pop-up camper, there are some technical specifications to consider.

First, consider the weight and size of the trailer, especially if you plan on towing with a small vehicle. Be sure that your car or truck can safely tow the weight of the trailer or camper that you want to purchase, and that you have the proper hitch or towing arrangement on your vehicle.

Second, think about how much comfort matters while camping, as the interior space and sleeping capacity will dictate that. Get a camper big enough for everyone you plan to adventure with, including your pets – and consider your height to make sure you’re able to lay down to sleep. It may help to make a list of what amenities you need and which you can do without.

Each listing below has essential technical specifications to help guide you in making the best decision.

The Best Pop-Up Campers:

• The Best Two-Person Pop-Up Camper
• The Best Pop-Up Camper for Families
• The Best Value Pop-Up Camper
• The Best Off-Road Pop-Up Camper
• The Best Pop-Up Truck Camper

The Best of the Rest

1. best two-person pop-up camper: opus op lite.

What we dig: Luxurious off-grid comfort can be yours at the push of a button.

• Weight: 2,387 pounds
• Person capacity: 2 adults
• Dimensions closed: 206” x 66” x 53”
• Dimensions opened: 206” x 66” x 120″

Compact, rugged, and well-equipped are but a few of the terms required to properly summarize the awesomeness of the OPUS OP Lite pop-up camper trailer. It’s been purpose-built to travel anywhere your towing vehicle can go, both on and off-road, and it has all the equipment you need for off-grid living.

This trailer’s main selling point is its AIR Tent Technology. Just push a button to start the air compressor, which will erect the tent in less than 90 seconds. Once inflated, you’ll have a living space with an eight-foot ceiling, extra-large windows, and plenty of room to stretch out.

Despite the blow-up nature of the tent, durability isn’t a concern. OPUS tested their tent against harsh winds from a helicopter, the water force of a fire truck’s hose, and punctures from kitchen knives, and they’ve even rolled over it with a truck to see if it would pop. The tent emerged unscathed from everything they threw at it.

The living space is equipped with a queen-size bed, a leatherette seating and dining area, and abundant storage options. Large exterior storage compartments provide ample space for your outdoor gear. On the exterior are a pull-out kitchen, a water tank, a propane tank holder, and sliding storage drawers.

Built to go off-road, the burly all-terrain tires will grip any surface. Both wheels have independent suspension, a front rock guard protects the trailer from trail debris, and the hitch rotates 360 degrees for extreme maneuverability – all of which are attached to a strong, galvanized steel frame.

The OPUS Op Lite has everything a couple could need to live out in the middle of nowhere for days on end. There is a trailer load of accessories that can be added to the trailer to even further improve its off-road capability and campsite comfort.

2. Best Pop-Up Camper for Families: Coachman Clipper Classic

What we dig: Over a dozen floor plans and countless options enable you to make it your own.

• Weight: 2,840 pounds
• Person capacity: 4 adults, 3 children
• Dimensions closed: 228” x 85” x 55”
• Dimensions opened: 281” x 85” x 144”

There are many different ways you can configure the Coachman Clipper , which makes it the best choice for families. The largest size can comfortably sleep seven people, but you can tailor it to fit your own specific family needs.

The largest floor plan is quite big and heavy. You’ll need a vehicle that can safely tow a few thousand pounds, but you’ll likely have one if you have a large family to cart around. Smaller versions are available for those with smaller family sizes (and vehicles.)

The big Clipper Classic comes with a king-size bed, a queen-size bed, a gaucho bed, and dinette seating that can also be used for sleeping children. It’s a full-on RV that just so happens to collapse down to an aerodynamic, low-profile towing size.

And much like a full-size RV, the Clipper Classic features a cassette toilet, shower, dual-burner stovetop, sink, refrigerator, an air conditioner, and a furnace. The dinette has seating for four with a table, and the gaucho sofa bed be used as a sofa during the day.

There are too many standard features on the Clipper Classic to list them all, but some of the best are the thick heated mattresses, the LED interior lighting, and a Jensen Bluetooth stereo. Optional extras include solar panels, a bike rack, and a storage security system.

The Coachman Clipper Classic is a true home on wheels. An off-road package is also available if you want to take your family deep into the backcountry past where the pavement ends.

3. Best Value Pop-Up Camper: SylvanSport GO

What we dig: Extreme capability and versatility at an affordable price point.

• Weight: 840 pounds
• Person capacity: 4 adults
• Dimensions closed: 143” x 75” x 53”
• Dimensions opened: 154” x 124” x 108”

There are three different modes available with the SylvanSport GO : travel mode, camping mode, and transport mode. It’s a practical trailer that’ll serve you well with its versatility.

The most interesting mode is perhaps the camping mode, as you can arrange the tent in a few different ways depending on how many you need to sleep. When fully laid out, the king-size-plus bed can sleep four people. But you can also fold away portions of the mattress to better sleep one, two, or three people. there’s very little floor space left when all the beds are laid out, and both the storage options and dining table are inaccessible.

But with only the side sleeping bunks in position, the usable space is certainly adequate for two people. And even the convenient table can fold away to make room for a pair of mountain bikes or four-legged travel buddies.

In travel mode, this tiny trailer can be towed by any vehicle with a hitch. It also features tubular crossbars to easily mount your kayaks or mountain bikes.

Transport mode is a unique twist uncommon on other trailers. In this mode, the two metal sleeping platforms connect to form a utility trailer. This can be used to haul anything from your quad and dirt bikes to large home appliances. (The website has photos that do a great job of showing all the modes.)

This amazing utility makes the SylvanSport Go a tempting buy, as does it’s low price. It’ll be a great travel camper for a small family but can also function as an everyday utility trailer. What’s not to love?

4. Best Off-Road Pop-Up Camper: Black Series Dominator

What we dig: Durable, rugged, and able to haul all your outdoor gear.

• Weight: 2,740 pounds
• Dimensions closed: 209” x 74” x 64”
• Dimensions opened: 209” x 74” x 128”

There ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough, ain’t no river wide enough to stop you and your Black Series Dominator . It’s the ultimate off-road, off-grid pop-up camper trailer for couples and small families.

That Motown classic wasn’t written with the Dominator in mind, but it fits the bill. It has a robust quad-shock suspension system to help evenly distribute impact,  Cooper all-terrain tires (including dual spare wheel mounts,) recovery shackles, and an indestructible welded steel frame.

This beast may have a rough and tumble exterior, but it’s soft on the inside, with both a queen-size bed and a seating area that doubles as a second bed. There are gas struts to help raise the camper when it’s time to make camp.

The entry way is tall enough to stand and stretch, and all of the canvas walls have windows with awnings, privacy flaps, and mosquito netting. On the exterior, there’s ample storage room and plenty of amenities. Thanks to a roof rack, you have the option of tying down any gear you’ll need for the trip. There are also several exterior storage compartments and 120-watt solar panels to top off the 100-amp batteries whenever you catch a few rays of sunlight.

One of this trailer’s best features is the large, fold-out kitchen. It has a three-burner stovetop, dishwashing sink, drying rack, and utensil storage drawers. All of this slides out at a comfortable height and fits under the extendable entryway awning, allowing you to do nearly gourmet cooking outdoors.

5. Best Pop-Up Truck Camper: BunduTec WILD

What we dig: It’s well made with high-quality materials and ample storage space.

• Weight: 1,630 pounds
• Person capacity: 2 adults, 1 child
• Dimensions closed: 151” x 84” x 63” (84” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 151” x 84” x 85” (84” floor)

Truck bed pop-up campers are a popular alternative to the tow-behind variants, and the BunduTec WILD is a top-tier choice in this category. It was made for half-ton pickup trucks, but any truck with an adequate bed length and gross vehicle weight rating can haul it.

The standard edition comes with many features not seen on similar pop-up truck campers, and the extra accessories add luxury and capability that far exceeds what’s offered by most of the competition.

Framed in wood and lined with lightweight aluminum, the WILD is strong and lightweight. Truck bed pop-up campers rarely offer more than a seating area and mattress, but the WILD comes standard a toilet, shower, sink, furnace, water heater, refrigerator, and a two-burner stove, in addition to the seating area and mattress.

Also included standard are multiple USB and 12-volt outlets, LED lighting, a roof fan vent, and an electric roof lift. Optional accessories include electric corner jacks, a glass sink countertop, improved overhead cabinets, and a skylight, among many other options.

For a solo traveler or a couple with a small child, this pop-up camper has everything you could want in a truck-bed pop-up camper.

The following pop-up campers are also fantastic options worth considering. Though they didn’t get a “best of” label, we still think they bring something unique to the table.

• Weight: 1,495 pounds
• Person capacity: 6 adults
• Dimensions closed: 186” x 48” x 80”
• Dimensions opened: 186” x 140” x 120”

The Camp365 is more than a simple pop-up camper – it’s a full-on foldable cabin. Not only does it unfold to a spacious 700-cubic-foot cabin (a huge living space for a camper,) but it also has a smaller road profile than just about any other option on the market.

When folded down for travel and storage, the Camp365 is four feet wide and less than seven feet tall. It has an incredibly aerodynamic shape that’ll tow easily behind any vehicle and easily stores in a garage when not in use.

Unfolding and setting up the cabin takes less than 10 minutes. The open interior sleeps up to six people, and the beds can be folded away when you’d rather have an open space for an indoor gathering. It’s an incredibly versatile and impressive mobile home.

7. Forest River Flagstaff Hard-Side

• Weight: 2,648 pounds
• Person capacity: 3 adults
• Dimensions closed: 250” x 84” x 68”
• Dimensions opened: 250” x 84” x 168”

Unlike most other pop-up campers, the Forest River Flagstaff Hard-Side has solid fiberglass walls for a completely enclosed living space, much like a full-sized RV. This provides the advantage of improved sound dampening and weather resistance.

This loaded pop-up, or rather, fold-up camper, comes standard with a Wi-Fi extender and a seven-way pigtail plug. It also features USB ports, indoor and outdoor speakers, a digital media receiver, courtesy lights, and more electronic hookups, including a mount prepped for solar panels.

This camper includes a three-burner stovetop, oven, microwave, fridge, and sink, plus a queen-size bed and pull-out sofa. It’s a bit more cumbersome to tow, but buyers who prioritize convenience and amenities may find that a totally reasonable trade off.

8. Four Wheel Campers Raven

• Weight: 1,040 pounds
• Dimensions closed: 118” x 80” x 60” (70” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 118” x 80” x 78” (70” floor)

With three different floor plans to choose from, more than a dozen fabric options, and numerous optional extras, the Four Wheel Campers Raven is unlike any other truck bed camper in the forest.

This model is designed for full-size trucks with beds between 5’5″ and 5’8″. You can customize it any which way you want: with a rollover couch, a two-burner stove, fridge, sink, and a queen-size, over-the-cab bed. You can even add in a furnace to keep the space nice and toasty.

Buyers like the size and versatility of this truck camper since it really allows you to create your own dream camping setup. It’s a great size and choice for adventurous couples but can also fit a child or adventuring dog (or cat!) It’s fairly lightweight, too.

9. Northstar 600SS

• Weight: 1,258 pounds
• Dimensions closed: 146” x 77” x 58” (75” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 146” x 77” x 83” (75” floor)

The Northstar 600SS is loaded with interior and exterior storage options. It has a queen size mattress to sleep two with room to spare, plus accessible storage on both sides so each occupant has their own space for gear. It’s exceptionally spacious for its size – a couple could live out of this camper for months.

This pop-up camper works for short- and long-cab versions of midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier. Though it only sleeps two people,

Standard equipment includes a refrigerator, a furnace, a two-burner stove, four corner jacks, and an electric roof lift. There are dozens of optional accessories to improve the space including additional cabinetry, a roof air conditioner, and an exterior port shower.

10. Somerset Utah

• Weight: 2,760 pounds
• Person capacity: 5 adults, 2 children
• Dimensions closed: 225” x 89” x 105”
• Dimensions opened: 283” x 128” x 58”

A fun and functional family-sized pop-up camper, the Somerset Utah is a top choice for big groups. It has a wide-open communal floor plan and plenty of sleeping space between the two king-size beds. There’s also another slide-out bed, a dinette, a stove, and a sink. You can also opt to add on a cassette toilet or shower.

This camper packs down to a rather small size. It’s sleek and aerodynamic when out on the road and has a sizable front storage area where you can keep firewood, propane tanks, or outdoor gear. You can even opt for a large front storage deck to store your quad or dirt bikes.

11. Taxa Outdoors Cricket

• Weight: 1,753 pounds
• Person capacity: 2 adults, 2 children
• Dimensions closed: 180” x 79” x 83”
• Dimensions opened: 180” x 79” x 110”

Designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, the Taxa Outdoors Cricket has everything you need to make the best of your next outdoor adventure, without extra features you won’t need. Style-wise, it’s like a modernized version of the campervans of decades past.

The lightweight and durable frame can handle rough roads when required, but its relatively small dimensions allow nearly any vehicle to tow it. Taxa says their design was inspired by NASA, and it certainly looks that way. Integrated electrical wiring and plumbing give you the foundation you need to equip the Cricket however you’d like.

The engineers at Taxa crammed a lot of luxury and convenience into this tiny package. Options include AC, additional sleeping space, and various kitchen amenities. As for your gear, there are optional Thule roof racks and mounting bars for you to secure all of your outdoor equipment.

More Gear to Help You Hit the Road:

Are Yeti Coolers Worth the Money?

8 Amazing DIY Teardrop Trailer & Camper Kits

The 11 Best Field Watches under $200

Why is Patagonia so Expensive? Here’s the Answer

The 16 Best Podcast for Road Trips

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Posted by Arthur McMahon

Arthur loves to walk. It’s as simple as that. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike.

8 Best Hardshell Rooftop Tents for Overlanding

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9 Best Pop Up Campers & Tent Trailers (Video Tours + Reviews)

(Updated 8/21)

Before we get into the list of the best pop up campers…let me tell you a quick story. It’s about a tent and an RV that were madly in love.

Their families tried to stop them from seeing each other but eventually, they ran away together to a campground far, far away. Years later they returned and were hoping their families would be more accepting, especially since now it wasn’t just the two of them. 

Now they had a little pop-up camper child, the result of the perfect union between Mrs. Tent and Mr. RV. And so the humble pop-up camper came into existence, to bring peace and harmony to the great divide between the RVs and the Tents. 😲🤣

Now, decades later, the pop-up camper or tent trailer is still one of the most popular family camping options. You get some of the comforts and security of an RV while still being affordable, lightweight, and easy to use. 

If you’re thinking of getting a pop-up, this is the article for you. You get some of the top picks for the best pop up campers and tent trailers as well as a few things to consider before buying. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the video reviews since they really help you visualize the size and features. 

Let’s dive in! 

Table of Contents

What Types of Pop Up Campers Are There Anyway?

Tent trailers have come a long way and even evolved into some hybrid types of pop up campers.

Traditional Tent Trailers

These are the kind most people envision when they hear “pop-up camper”. They look like a flat rectangular box when all put away. Then the top pops up and bed platforms extend out from either end leaving soft tent-like sides.

Hi-Lo Style

This style is kinda like a hard-sided RV that’s been cut in half horizontally. The top half has a hard roof and sides that goes up and down. When put away, it almost looks like a normal pop-up camper. Hi-Lo was a popular brand for years, but they’re not made anymore. Now, a brand called Trail Manor makes something similar.

When folded up, an a-frame pop-up resembles most other tent trailers. However, the roof has two parts that when raised, give the appearance of an a-frame house. These have hard sides but limited headroom. There are some models that do have small tent pullouts to help maximize the space inside.

Hybrid Pop-Ups

Hybrid pop up campers come in all shapes, sizes, and configurations. What they have in common is that some part of it unfolds and/or pops ups. Makes sense right? 🤔 See if you can find the hybrids on my list!

*Psst…if you’re looking for other small and lightweight travel trailers, don’t miss these articles.

• 11 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs (2021) Video Tours, Pics + Floor Plans!
• 11 Best Small RVs With a Shower and Toilet (Pics + Floor Plans)

List of the Best Pop Up Campers (Updated 2021)

Before we dive headfirst into this list, keep in mind that it’s not organized as a list from best to worst, biggest to smallest, or prettiest to ugliest. Each of these trailers has its advantages and disadvantages and it’s up to you to decide which is the best pop up camper for you and your family. 

Ok, now we’re ready to go!

Sylvansport Go Pop Up Camper

A perfect first pop-up camper for couples who want a step up from their tent and extra space for their gear.

Weighing in at just 840 pounds, this mini pop-up camper doubles as a sleeping area, toy hauler, and gear rack. In fact, when it’s folded up, you can barely tell it’s a foldable camper. 

There’s a unique tent pod that, when folded up, can be adjusted up and down as needed depending on what else you want to haul. Keep it down if you want to carry some kayaks or a couple of bikes on the top rack. 

Adjust the tent pod to the top position and you can haul a dirt bike or even a 4-wheeler on the lower gear deck. 

Then when it’s time to camp, just open up the waterproof tent pod and you’ve got sleeping space for up to four people and a generous 6’5” standing height inside. The interior can also be configured with just two bunks on each side and a multi-position table in the middle. 

Check out the video tour here .

Coachman Clipper Express

An excellent hybrid pop-up for camping as a couple.

If you want to start small and don’t need space to haul bikes or kayaks, a Coachman Clipper Express is an excellent choice. About 2/3rds of the roof pops up so you get standing room in part of the trailer.

Currently it comes in 3 different configurations with the smallest havine a bed, sink, bench seat and countertop inside. It’s nice if you have a smaller towing vehicle since this little guy has an UVW of just 1,418 pounds. (But always double-check how much your vehicle can tow. You don’t want a repeat of this scene from The Long, Long Trailer )

The largest configuration comes in at a little over 2,200 pounds, but it has a bed, sofa, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, and a small wardrobe inside.

Check out the video tour here.

Coachmen Clipper 128LS

One of the smallest pop ups with a bathroom

This simple pop-up camper is a greater starter choice for families looking to upgrade from a tent. Its simple design adds an extra layer of security and comfort you won’t get with a tent, and with a UVW of 2,204 pounds, it’s still light enough to pull even if you don’t have a big truck.

On the inside, it’s got several storage cabinets, a kitchenette, and a dinette for when you want to eat inside away from the mosquitos. Plus, it’s available with an optional bathroom package so you don’t have to run to the bathhouse when nature calls at 2am. 

There aren’t a lot of great video tours for this one. Here’s a short one , but I’ll be sure to post a better one once it’s available.

2020 Forest River Flagstaff 228D

A little extra space for you and the kids. 

A family camping trip can go downhill real fast when you’ve got a day full of rain and the entire family is crammed in a tiny camper. Fortunately, this pop-up camper gives everyone a little extra space. 

The box is 12-feet long and in addition to the pullouts on either end, it also has a side dinette pullout that gives you a lot more space to move around inside. 

This model also is available with an optional shower and toilet cassette if you’d prefer not to have to run to the bathhouse for late-night emergencies.

Here’s the video tour .

Coachmen Viking V3

The best pop up camper for families with a lot of toys.

Trying to tow your pop up camper in addition to a bunch of bikes, tarps, skateboards, footballs, and random pool noodles can be challenging. If that sounds like you, you’ll love this Coachmen Viking V3. 

It’s got a front cargo area where you can haul anything from a few mountain bikes to a few dirt bikes. But don’t worry, that extra cargo space doesn’t mean you’ve got less space inside. 

Inside the 12-foot long box, you’ve got a queen and king size beds, a kitchenette, a slide-out dinette, and a toilet.

Here’s the comprehensive video tour.

Forest River Rockwood HW296

Not your Grandma’s pop-up camper.

If you want to get more amenities than some traditional RV travel trailers while having the lightweight and easy storage of pop-ups, this is the camper for you. 

The HW in its name stands for “high-wall”, meaning the side walls are a little taller than traditional pop-ups. You might not even notice this in pictures, but it really makes a big difference. 

Just that little bit of extra height on the sidewalls and the longer 16-foot box length mean you get a pop up with a microwave, fridge, oven, double sink, hard wall toilet/shower, and more.

Here’s the detailed video tour .

Let’s have a look at three more unique pop-up campers that you should also keep your eye on.

The best pop-up for going off the beaten path.

Most pop-up campers can’t handle much more than the occasional pothole. This Opus off-road pop-up camper laughs in the face of potholes and dirt roads. It’s made to go…well, anywhere your vehicle can go. 

If you’ve got a serious off-roading vehicle that can scale rocky slopes and trudge through deep sand, this Opus camper is happy to follow along. 

It’s built like a tank and has a unique inflatable tent structure that sets itself up in about a minute and a half. Plus it’s got gear racks for hauling bikes, toys, and extra supplies for when you’re camping off the grid

Here’s the complete video review.

Big space you can pull with small vehicles.

This is definitely not your traditional pop-up camper. Once it’s fully folded up, it’s almost hard to tell what it is you’re pulling. But once set-up, you’ve got a 12’x8’ cabin with over seven feet of headroom. 

It comes with different options that include bedding, heaters, a sink, and stove. And best of all, it weighs just under 1,500 pounds so almost any vehicle can tow it.

Check out the video review here.

Trail Manor Campers

Lightweight, easy to set up, and filled with nice features.

If you don’t like the soft sides of normal tent trailers but still want something that’s easy to pull, the Trail Manor could be the one for you. Even the largest model weights just over 3100 pounds. There are two top sections that fold up and out to give you the full standing height and some extra length.

Plus, you get something very few pop up campers have, a hardwall bathroom that’s not a wet bath. That’s right, it’s got an actual shower and tub, toilet and sink!

Watch the video tour here.

So there you go! You’ve got some of the top picks for the best pop up and tent trailers for your family.

If you’re new to the world of pop-up campers, tent trailers, and RVs, you’ve probably still got a few questions bouncing around your head right about now. 

Maybe you’re wondering…

Pop Up Camper FAQs

What are all these acronyms… ccc, uvw, gvwr .

Hint, they’re not TV stations. 

GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

UVW = Unloaded Vehicle Weight

CCC = Cargo Carrying Capacity

The GVWR is the total allowable weight of everything. I mean everything… the pop-up camper itself, full water tanks, beach toys, flip flops, and snacks you have hidden in the secret compartments. Combine all of this to get to the maximum allowable weight of everything together.

This is important to keep in mind both when packing as well as when deciding if your vehicle can pull your camper. 

Imagine your vehicle can tow a maximum of 2,000 pounds. So you buy a pop-up camper with a UVW (unloaded vehicle weight) of 2,000 pounds. But then you add 20 gallons of water, a full propane tank, a cooler full of Pepsi and cheese, and few pieces of firewood for good measure. 

That extra weight will put more stress on your towing vehicle than it needs. So make sure to consider the GVWR, how much stuff you plan to pack, and your vehicle’s towing capacity when looking at campers.

The UVW is the weight of the camper when it leaves the factory, without water, propane, or other cargo.  

And to get the CCC , it’s easy. Just take the GVWR and subtract the UVW. Don’t worry if you’re tired of math, most companies give you these figures on the product page. 

Take for example the specifications for the 2020 Forest River Flagstaff 228D . The UVW is 2,439 pounds and on top of that, you’ve got a whopping 824 pounds of cargo capacity!  

What if I want to buy a used pop-up camper? 

Just like when buying anything used, it’s important to give it a good once over to make sure it’s been well-maintained. Here are some things to look for.

Check for water damage. If the previous owners closed up the camper after a rainy weekend of camping and never reopened it to air it out, it’s likely that the canvas may have started to mold and deteriorate. 

Look for water marks on its interiors as well as damage to the floors or cabinets. Most pop-up campers have laminate cabinets that don’t hold up well when they get wet. 

And just use your nose. Does it smell musty and moldy inside? Then there’s a good chance it may have some moisture problems. 

Check the hard exterior. Pay special attention to the seams where different pieces come together. Are they still sealed or does it look like water could get in? Do you notice any rust spots or visible damage to the hard exteriors? Is the chassis in good shape?

Completely set it up and take it down. The setup and takedown process is a good way to help identify problems. Check things like:

• Do the ends slide out properly. 
• Does the lift system work smoothly? 
• Are the levelers in good condition? 
• Does the door close and open properly? 
• Does the plumbing system work properly, including the fresh, grey, and black water tanks (if it has a flush toilet)?
• Do the dinette and other interior pieces unfold properly?

Can I rent a pop up camper before I buy one?

Yes you can! You may not be able to rent the exact model you’re looking at buying, but it’s a smart idea to try a tent trailer if you’ve never used one before. It’ll help you decide if you’d rather go for a regular hard-sided RV.

Check out RVshare to see what pop up campers are available to rent in your area.

Do those tiny bathrooms really work? 

So you’re looking at a larger pop-up with a small bathroom and you’re probably thinking, am I really going to be able to, well… take care of business?

Many have what’s called a cassette toilet. Newer ones have a CD or mp3 toilet. (Just kidding, I couldn’t help but put that cheesy joke in there.) A cassette toilet has a lid that folds over it so you can use that area as a shelf if you need some extra storage or just don’t plan to use the camper’s bathroom during a trip. 

But when it’s time to take care of business, I’ll be honest, they don’t give you a lot of privacy. Most have a curtain that goes around the tiny toilet area. 

Some larger pop-ups have a combination shower and toilet cassette. These are nice since the toilet area is a bit larger, so even with the curtain closed you don’t feel quite so claustrophobic. 

So, to answer the question… Do those tiny pop-up camper bathrooms really work? Yes, they do, but they’re not the most comfortable. If your campground has a nice bathhouse that’s close to your site, you’ll probably end up heading over there to take care of business. 

Can my vehicle tow a pop up camper?

One of the big advantages of a pop-up camper is that more vehicles can tow them thanks to their lightweight. But don’t think the V6 under the hood automatically means you can pull a pop-up camper. 

There are other things that manufacturers take into account when rating a vehicle’s towing capacity other than just the size of the engine – suspension, type of hitch mount, etc.

Here are some good guides that’ll help you figure out how big of a pop-up camper you can afford to get.

Towing Capacity Guide  

Guide to Towing Capacity for SUVs and Trucks

A Few More Things You Should Know Before Buying Your First Pop-Up Camper

It can get hot in the summer. If you forget to make a site reservation and end up with a site in the full summer sun, it’ll get hot inside. Although they have mesh sides, the heavy fabric can still trap a lot of heat, so don’t think that the whole family can just relax inside the camper on a 90-degree day. 

But some do come with A/C! If you’re going to be doing a lot of camping in hot, muggy weather, then look for one with an air conditioner. Because of the fabric sides which don’t provide a lot of insulation, you won’t be able to get it like an icebox inside but it’ll definitely take the edge off.

You’ll still feel like you’re sleeping in a tent. Yup, you’re gonna hear the crickets as you’re falling asleep. This is something people will either love or hate. It’s great if you want some extra conveniences but still want to feel like you’re in the outdoors. It’s not so great if you have some noisy campground neighbors who aren’t respecting “quiet time”.

When it rains, you need to air it out. If it rained during your camping trip and you had to pack up the camper while the awnings were still wet, don’t forget to open it up when you get home to make sure it fully dries. Sure, it’s an inconvenience, but it’ll prevent mold and mildew which could lead to more costly repairs in the future. 

Extreme wind can be an issue. While this depends largely on where you plan to camp, keep in mind that places such as Utah and Wyoming are notorious for their wind. This can snap the “pop up” portion – I actually saw this happen in real life with my cousin while camping near Goblin Valley, Utah. They had to spend the night in our camper!

Some National Parks require hard sides to camp in . This is mainly in bear country (such as Yellowstone National Park) but it’s something to consider if you live around the area and hope to camp there.

So Which of The Best Pop-Up Campers Will You Get?

So, will the best pop up camper for you be the cute but capable Sylvansport Go or the luxurious and comfortable Forest River Rockwood HW296? Or maybe you’re on a budget and will look for a used pop-up camper in good condition?

Whichever you choose, I’m sure you and your family will love the extra comfort and convenience that pop-up campers provide. 

To make the most out of your next RV camping trip, don’t forget to check out some of my other RV camping articles , like…

• 5 WAYS TO CLEAN YOUR RV AWNING (+DIY AWNING CLEANER!)
• 17 USEFUL RV CAMPING STOCKING STUFFERS $10 AND UNDER!
• 11 BEST SMALL RVS WITH A SHOWER AND TOILET (PICS + FLOOR PLANS)

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2 thoughts on “9 Best Pop Up Campers & Tent Trailers (Video Tours + Reviews)”

Wow, so many ads! I appreciate the info but it’s so distracting to actually read what you are writing because of all the ads and pop-ups.

Hi Aster! Thanks for the kind words! I don’t love ads either, but because of the ads I am able to support my 3 kiddos while staying at home! =D – Stacy

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HI! I'm Stacy, AKA “The Crazy Outdoor Mama”

I'm the voice behind the website, and I hope you've found what you needed! I'm an outdoorsy married mother of three from Wyoming, and I LOVE creating resources that make camping and other outdoor activities easier!

Ultimate Guide to the Best Pop-Up Campers of 2023

Pop-up campers are the way to go if you’re tired of tent camping (but don’t want to invest in a large RV). Pop-up campers, often referred to simply as “pop-ups,” are a happy medium between roughing it in a tent and living in luxury in large motorhomes or travel trailers. They get you off of the ground and in an enclosed space–but are much smaller and easier to tow than larger rigs. 

Because of their small size, pop-up campers often have limited space and amenities. Fortunately, there are many different types, sizes, and styles of pop-up campers, and choosing the right one for your needs is important. 

Different Types of Pop-up Campers

When most people think of a pop-up camper, they think of a glorified tent on wheels. However, pop-ups have come a long way, and there are now many different types to choose from, including the following: 

• Hard-sided pop-ups 
• Pop-up tent trailers 
• Extendable pop-ups 
• Mini pop-ups 
• Off-road pop-ups
• Family-style pop-ups

There are even pop-up campers with full kitchens, bathrooms, exterior showers, air conditioning, and more! No matter what you’re looking for–or what type of towing vehicle you have–there’s a pop-up that can meet your needs.

Best Tent-Style Pop-up Campers

Image courtesy of Camping World : Coachmen Clipper 107 LS

Tent-style pop-up campers, also known as “tent campers,” are what most people think of when they picture a traditional pop-up camper. These campers typically pop up and then have tent extensions on the front and back ends of the camper (and sometimes on one side). 

Tent-style pop-ups are among the most family-friendly pop-up options because the tent pop-outs offer more room for sleeping. These types of campers also often have a small kitchen with a three-burner stove, refrigerator, and microwave. 

Here are some of the top tent-style pop-ups on the market: 

• Coachmen Clipper 107 LS 
• Sylvan Sport Go
• Jayco Jay Sport 

Best Pop-Up Campers For Family Camping

Image courtesy of Camping World : Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC

There are also pop-up campers that have enough beds and additional sleeping space for the whole family. These pop-ups are usually from 20 to 28 feet long , and some models can sleep up to 8 people comfortably . Most family-friendly pop-ups will also have a cassette toilet and an air conditioner, and some even have a shower and space to store your camping gear.

Recommended pop-up campers for families include: 

• Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC
• Trail Manor 2518 Series 
• 2019 Jayco Jay Sport Series

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Best Pop-Ups for Individual or Couple Campers

Image courtesy of CamperX : OPUS Camper OP4

If it’s just you or you and one other person blazing a trail, there are plenty of pop-up campers that are perfect for you. Pop-ups for individuals or couples are even smaller and more compact than other types of pop-ups. 

They may not have as much storage space (or as many amenities) as family-size pop-ups, but they make up for it by being lightweight and easy to tow . 

Smaller pop-up campers may also have more exterior amenities to make up for the lack of interior space , such as an outdoor two-burner stove, an exterior shower, and a portable RV toilet. 

Some of the best pop-ups for individuals and couples include: 

• OPUS Camper OP4 
• Aliner Ranger 
• Sylvan Sport Go 

Best Hard-Sided Pop-up Campers

Hard-sided pop-up camping trailers are becoming more popular than ever, as they’re more secure and solid than tent campers . Another advantage of hard-sided pop-ups is access to national parks that prohibit soft-sided campers or tents. If bears, wolves, and other wild animals are native to the area, some national parks won’t let campers camp with pets if they have a soft-sided camper or tent. 

My wife and I ran into this problem on a National Park road trip to Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado. We wouldn’t have been allowed to leave our dog in the camper by herself and go exploring unless the camper was hard-sided. 

In addition to being more secure, hard-sided pop-ups, such as A-frames, have high ceilings that make the camper feel more spacious than it actually is. They also have ample storage, one to two full-size beds, and an air conditioner since conditioned air can’t escape through the tent flaps. 

Here are some of the top hard-sided pop-up campers around: 

• Aliner Expedition
• Forest River Rockwood Hardside 

While the Forest River Rockwood and Aliner Expedition are A-frames, the Trail Manor features a front and back slide-out. This makes for ample living space that includes a U-shaped dinette, a king bed, and a full kitchen.  

Pop-up Campers You Can Tow With a Car

Another advantage of many pop-up campers is that you can tow them with your car . However, some of the larger, family-friendly campers, such as the Forest River Flagstaff High Wall, are too heavy to tow with a car and will require a small truck. 

If you want the option of using a standard car or small SUV to tow your rig, we recommend one of the following: 

• Aliner Scout or Ranger 
• Opus Camper 
• Turtleback Getaway 

Each of these tiny travel trailer pop-ups weighs less than 1,500 pounds and has an axle weight light enough for a car to handle. They’re essentially tents on wheels and can hold a maximum of one to two people. 

Pop-up Campers Built For Off-Road Adventures

Image courtesy of The Adventure Portal : Turtleback Getaway 

Finally, if you’re looking for off-road adventures or to live off-grid comfortably, there are pop-ups that can accommodate you. Off-road pop-up campers have all-terrain tires, durable axles, and higher ground clearance than most other RVs. While these popup RV types have less interior storage and limited amenities, they have outside storage options, such as roof racks and front racks. 

Save up to $1,200/year on RV storage & parking

Final thoughts .

No matter how big, small, or versatile you need your pop-up camper to be, there’s an option to choose from. Pop-up campers have come a long way in terms of how much living, storage, and sleeping space they offer. Many new and used pop-ups even have kitchens and bathrooms to ensure you stay comfortable during your adventures.  

Once you find the best pop-up camper for your needs, it’s important to store it in a safe and secure location. If you don’t have a suitable location at your home, consider using Neighbor to find safe and affordable RV/camper storage near you . 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a pop-up camper.

Pop-up campers aren’t as expensive as other RVs, but they can still cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000, depending on their size, amenities, and features. 

Do Pop-up Campers Have Bathrooms?

Many pop-up campers have a portable toilet, an outside shower, and a small wet bath at a minimum. Others, however, have a full bathroom complete with an RV toilet and shower. 

What Is the Most Luxurious Pop-up Camper?

While pop-up campers aren’t renowned for their luxury and comfort, there are some options that go against this trend. The Jayco Jay Sport Series and the Trail Manor Series feature king beds and ample room for all the comforts of home. 

How Often Should One Perform Maintenance on a Pop-up Camper?

To ensure your pop-up camper stays in tip-top shape, you should perform maintenance on it once or twice per year. 

What Is the Average Towing Capacity Needed for a Pop-up Camper?

With a towing capacity of at least 2,000 to 3,500 pounds , you can confidently tow a pop-up camper! However, smaller options weigh as little as 1,000 pounds, while larger pop-ups can weigh up to 5,000. 

Related Posts

Top 10 best off-road campers for ultimate wilderness escapes, can an rv fit in a garage the rv types & models that fit in a standard garage, the best 5th wheels of 2023, the 10 best truck campers of 2024  , top picks for 2024: find the best teardrop camper for your adventures, the 7 best lightweight travel trailers .

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10 Best Pop-Up Campers

A pop-up campervan is a perfect vehicle for people who are new to road-tripping or camping, as well as experienced travelers that don’t want the inconvenience or cost of a large RV.

The smallest type of motorhome on the road, pop-up campers are incredibly convenient because they are collapsible, which means they are easy to tow and store. And, despite their small size, they can accommodate between two and eight people, depending on the model.

What is a Pop-Up Camper?

A pop-up camper is a type of recreational vehicle that is towed behind a motorcar or a truck and that can be collapsed for easy storage and transport. When fully set up, a pop-up camper is similar to a tent, but provides plenty of interior space for living and sleeping and is far easier to set up and take down.

A conventional pop-up consists of a metal trailer frame and a box, a hard roof, and “soft walls” made of canvas, vinyl, or a similar material. The walls have windows with screens and the frame has pull-out bunks for sleeping.

Basic popup campers usually include several features such as sleeping bunks, a fold-down dinette that serves as both bench seating and a tabletop, storage cabinets, an onboard freshwater tank, a sink, interior DC lighting, and a 12-volt DC power system (including an AC to DC converter and a deep cycle battery.

Many pop-up campers also include additional features such as an electric or gas absorption refrigerator, an electric water pump, a rooftop air conditioner, an exterior shower, a water heater, one or two propane tanks, and a skylight or roof vent. Some premium models also include a shower, toilet, wastewater tanks, and a slide-out section to increase interior space.

Types of Pop-Up Campers

In addition to traditional pop-up campers, there are several special types of pop-ups on the market, including:

• High wall pop-ups: these have a taller box which allows for residential-height countertops and more storage space
• Motorcycle campers: lightweight pop-ups small enough to be pulled by a motorcycle
• Toy-hauler pop-ups: an open cargo deck for transporting ATVs , motorcycles, etc.
• Off-road pop-ups: a pop-up with rugged construction and raised suspension for off-road use
• A-frame: a small solid wall folding camper
• Flip-out pop-up camper: features a soft tent roof that flips over to become a bunk
• Inflatable trailer: compressed air side walls and roof

Things to Consider When Shopping for a Pop-Up Camper

There are several factors to take into consideration when shopping for a pop-up camper.

The weight of a pop-up camper is determined by the weight it can hold, and it will depend entirely on the type of vehicle that is going to tow the camper. The heavier the camper, the more features it is likely to have, however, it will mean needing to have a heavier duty vehicle to tow the camper.

2. Heating and Cooling System

Having a heating and cooling system can make your road trip more comfortable when days are hot, and nights are cold. A powered rooftop fan is also a great feature to have on a pop-up camper for not only keeping interiors cool on hot days but keeping away flying insects like flies.

3. Kitchen with Appliances

A kitchen area with appliances is super convenient and makes cooking on the road that much easier. Most models come with a small refrigerator, a sink for washing, and a stove. High-end models can also feature an oven, a microwave, and countertop space for preparation.

4. Storage Space

Storage space is essential but the more storage space the pop-up camper offers, the heavier it will be to tow. Good planning will allow for less storage space to be needed and you won’t have excess items that are not used.

Best Pop-Up Campers

Best overall: air opus.

The Air Opus is one of the best pop-up campers on the market. Small, lightweight, and easy to tow, the Air Opus comes with everything that you might need for a trip into the wild and is super easy to store after your trip.

One of the best features of this pop-up camper is the “Air Pole Technology,” which sees the trailer opening up and self-inflating into a full-sized camping trailer in just 90 seconds. This state-of-the-art technology uses air tubes and an electric pump, making setting up and taking down a quick and hassle-free process.

The Air Opus has a spacious interior with electric lighting, skylights, and windows. It also features a fully fitted kitchen with a microwave, a comfy dining and living area, and a built-in bedroom. It has a ceiling height of 2.5 meters which offers plenty of standing room for tall adults.

Specifications:

• Weight: 2,387 pounds
• Person capacity: 2 adults
• Dimensions closed: 206” x 66” x 53”
• Dimensions opened: 206” x 66” x 120″

Best Pop-Up Camper for Families: Coachman Clipper Classic

The Coachman Clipper is a fantastic option for a family-friendly pop-up camper with over a dozen floor plans and countless extra options. Weighing in at 2,840 pounds, the camper can accommodate up to four adults and three children and can be tailor-made to suit a wide variety of personal needs.

The Clipper Classic is spacious and airy with a king-size bed, a queen-size bed, a gaucho bed/sofa with thick heated mattresses, a four-seater dinette that can be converted into extra beds for children. A bathroom has a shower and a cassette toilet and a kitchen with a dual-burner stovetop, a refrigerator, a sink, and the interior has air-conditioning and a furnace for cold weather camping.

Some of the best features of this amazing camper include a Jensen Bluetooth stereo, LED interior lighting, solar panels, a storage security system, and a bike rack.

• Weight: 2,840 pounds
• Person capacity: 4 adults, 3 children
• Dimensions closed: 228” x 85” x 55”
• Dimensions opened: 281” x 85” x 144”

Best Truck Pop-Up Camper: Four Wheel Campers Raven

Described as ‘virtually indestructible,’ the Four Wheel Campers Raven is a truck camper made entirely from a robust aluminum frame with a removable camping pod attached by a series of safety hooks and clasps. It is easily set up and removed so the truck can be used for everyday activities like going to work, moving about town, or shopping and as a camper on the weekends.

The Four Wheel Campers Raven is available in a variety of options from base models to luxury options with built-in showers and comfy bench-style dinette seating. All models come with a large queen-size bed that fits on top of the truck and on popping the roof, a spacious dining area that seats two is opened, as well as a kitchen area with a fully functional kitchen. Other features include cooling and heating systems, window, insulation, lighting, and stylish furnishings.

• Weight: 1,040 pounds
• Person capacity: 2 adults, 1 child
• Dimensions closed: 118” x 80” x 60” (70” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 118” x 80” x 78” (70” floor)

BunduTec WILD

The BunduTec WILD is another truck camper that caught our eye and made the list of best truck campers. Made from high-quality materials and boasting ample storage space, this two-person pop-up truck camper is made for half-ton pickup trucks and is a popular alternative to the tow-behind variant.

Strong and lightweight, the BunduTec WILD is framed in wood and lined with lightweight aluminum, and the interior features a comfortable seating and sleeping area, a bathroom with a shower, and a toilet. A kitchen has a two-burner stove, refrigerator, and a sink, as well as a water heater, and a furnace for cold weather camping.

Other features include LED lighting throughout, multiple USB and 12-volt outlets, an electric roof lift, and a roof fan vent. Optional accessories with the BunduTec WILD include a glass sink countertop, electric corner jacks, stylish overhead cabinets, and a skylight.

• Weight: 1,630 pounds
• Dimensions closed: 151” x 84” x 63” (84” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 151” x 84” x 85” (84” floor)

Best Value Pop-Up Camper: SylvanSport GO

The SylvanSport GO is another ultra-lightweight pop-up camper that is ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a small pop-up camper. This four-person camper is 100% waterproof and comes with insulating bed platforms that are great for camping in colder areas.

It is easy to tow and back into spaces at campsites due to its size and it has a great roof rack with a low loading height at just 53 inches and a carrying capacity of 165 pounds so you can load up those mountain bikes, kayaks, and surfboards!

It has a waterproof tent pod that deploys and retracts from the hinged case which is mounted below the equipment rack and offers multiple comfy dining and sleeping options when set up with a standing height of six feet and five inches. The tent is 80 inches long and 116 wide and can comfortably accommodate four people. The tent can also be removed so the trailer can be used to haul gear or supplies.

• Weight: 840 pounds
• Person capacity: 4 adults
• Dimensions closed: 143” x 75” x 53”
• Dimensions opened: 154” x 124” x 108”

Best for Outdoor Activities: Forest River Rockwood Extreme Sports Package Camping Trailer

The Forest River Rockwood Extreme Sports Package Camping Trailer is a sports-lovers dream. It comes with a roof rack that can support up to 150 pounds of outdoor sports equipment from kayaks, canoes, and mountain bikes to surfboards, kitesurfing equipment, and more.

The beautifully designed interior boasts an L-shaped sofa that converts into a bed, a wood-effect floor with wood units to match, LED interior lighting, and a spacious cooking area/kitchen with a covered three-burner range.

Digital amenities in the ESP include USB and aux ports, a media receiver with Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi booster, an MP3 player, and a recharging station with two additional USB ports – ideal for the digital nomad. A 190-watt roof-mounted solar panel with a 1000-watt onboard inverter provides renewable energy to your batteries and allows you to power your outlets while camping off-grid.

Other top features include a 12-volt electric water pump, extra storage over the bunks, a patio light for outdoor dining or relaxing, and a Vinolon Supreme Tent with smoked vinyl windows. It boasts a 20-gallon tank for freshwater so you will have access to clean water when heading into the backcountry.

Other Great Pop-Up Campers

Forest river flagstaff.

The Forest River Flagstaff is another great hard-sided A-frame pop-up camper with a wealth of amenities. This hard-sided pop-up camper has the solid exterior of a travel trailer with the soft material shell of a tent camper, giving you the best of both worlds.

Easy to tow and set up, the Forest River Flagstaff has a white fiberglass exterior with an autumn wood interior and comfortable, stylish furnishings. Amenities include a comfy seating area with a dinette, a kitchen with a two- or -three-burner indoor range, a 12-volt refrigerator with a 100-watt roof solar panel, a microwave, and plenty of cabinets and storage space.

Different models offer different bathroom types from a Port-A-Potty to a hard wall shower with a residential flush toilet and the interior has LED lighting throughout. Other features include a 12-volt water pump, a 30-amp detachable power cord, a 35-amp converter, a courtesy light on the front, an outside griddle, and an automatic gas regulator.

Specifications

• Weight: 2,648 pounds
• Person capacity: 3 adults
• Dimensions closed: 250” x 84” x 68”
• Dimensions opened: 250” x 84” x 168”

The Camp365 is a simple pop-up camper that converts into a spacious 700-cubic-foot cabin. Designed with an aerodynamic shape and a small road profile so it’s easy to tow and back into campsite spaces, the Camp365 is four feet wide and less than seven feet tall when folded down for travel and storage.

Unfolding and setting up the Camp365 cabin takes less than 10 minutes and when fully up, the airy interior sleeps up to six people. The beds can be folded away to make space for relaxing or entertaining.

The kitchen has a two-burner, a portable pull-out stove that can be set up indoors or outdoors, a stainless sink, 12-gallon water tanks, and ample storage in the form of 39 cubic feet of in-floor and side and front dry storage as well as optional portable shelving and full-length hanging bars.

• Weight: 1,495 pounds
• Person capacity: 6 adults
• Dimensions closed: 186” x 48” x 80”
• Dimensions opened: 186” x 140” x 120”

Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0

The Livin’ Lite Quicksilver 8.0 is an ultra-lightweight pop-up camper with a simple, yet highly innovative design. Built on an all-aluminum superstructure, this four-person pop-up camper is super easy to tow thanks to a manual crank swivel jack on the tongue that requires very little effort.

The Quicksilver boasts two full-size beds and a dinette that can convert into an extra double bed to accommodate two more people. It has a small kitchen area with two oven burners and a sink, however, does not have a bathroom.

Additional features include an optional aluminum rear storage rack for packing more gear and if you plan on going off-road, you can choose the optional Off-Road Package that replaces the standard 12-inch tires with 15-inch all-terrain tires.

Jayco Jay Sport by Jayco

Offering four different floor plans, the Jayco Jay Sport has something for everyone. This versatile pop-up is airy and stylish with ample places to relax and modern furnishings that make it feel like a small home-away-from-home. The camper comfortably sleeps eight people and features a spacious fully functional kitchen area with a range of appliances that have been pre-plumbed for propane.

The Jayco Jay Sport pop-up camper has a heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant frame with a domed, seamless fiberglass roof and a mildew-resistant aluminum ceiling to which a water-repellent tent is attached on either end for extra space. Although there is no bathroom, there is an exterior shower and optional add-ons include a canopy awning and a double-entry step.

OPUS Off-Road

The OPUS Off-Road is a fantastic little camper for off-road enthusiasts. The quick-inflating tent takes just 90 seconds to inflate to full size and when fully set up has eight-foot ceilings, a full outdoor kitchen, plenty of windows, and skylights.

The four-man tent has an interior that has been specially designed to be functional, comfortable, and luxurious. Spacious and light with plenty of windows and skylights, the tent has a ceiling height of 2.5 meters, a large kitchen with a two-burner gas hob, a cabinet-mounted three-way fridge, a work surface with drawer units for storage. A demountable table and a seating area are great for relaxing, and fixed double bed areas have inner privacy tents.

Optional extras include a BPW WS3000 stabilizing hitch coupling; a Saracen WS3000 Hitch Lock, which comes with reduced insurance premiums; a Nemesis Ultra Wheel Lock with a guaranteed 20% discount on insurance premiums from SafeGuard Insurance; a 10-meter mains extension lead; a 12 Volt 110 Ah Leisure Battery; an Enduro Remote Control Motor Mover that rotates 360º and can move an OPUS up a 1-in-4 slope.

The OPUS Off-Road has 23-liter water and waste carriers and two high-quality lockable OPUS Alloy Roof Bars made from lightweight aluminum with smooth end molded caps. A carrier provides space for a variety of sports equipment such as mountain bikes, kayaks, and surfboards.

Aliner Ranger 12

The Aliner Ranger 12 is an A-frame pop-up camper with hard-angled walls that not only make it look like a little house on wheels but also make it super-insulated for camping in extreme weather. The Aliner Ranger 12 is available with two-floor plans, both of which have a kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, and sink, as well as a comfortable sleeping area for up to four people.

The camper is available in four sizes: a 10-foot cabin on 13-foot frame; a 12-foot cabin on 15-foot frame; and a 15-foot cabin on an 18-foot frame, and there are three different models:

• Standard – water hook-up
• Upgraded – 11-gallon freshwater tank, a three-way refrigerator, and two-burner stove
• Deluxe – larger three-way refrigerator with a freeze

Other features include hardwood cabinets, a cable connection, a front utility light, and windows for panoramic views.

Northstar 600SS

The Northstar 600SS is a pop-up camper that is compatible with midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier and features excellent interior and exterior storage capacity. The two-person pop-up camper has a queen-size mattress with room to spare, and a kitchen with a two-burner stove, a refrigerator, and plenty of storage space.

Other features include an electric roof lift and four corner jacks, while optional extras include an exterior port shower, a roof air conditioner, and high-end cabinets.

• Weight: 1,258 pounds
• Dimensions closed: 146” x 77” x 58” (75” floor)
• Dimensions opened: 146” x 77” x 83” (75” floor)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a pop-up camper difficult to set up.

Most pop-up campers are very easy to set up with two people as they have built-in cranks and slide-outs that are usually quite easy to maneuver.

Should I store my pop-up camper expanded or closed?

It is best to store your pop-up camper with the pop-up closed. As with any RV, everything needs to be cleaned and put away properly so that the RV is all set to go the next time it’s time to go camping. Leaving the tent set-up will expose the material to the elements and possibly damage it. Make sure the canvas is well-dried before collapsing the sides and roof to prevent mildew.

Can I store my pop-up camper with a cover over it?

Yes, you can, however, don’t put an airtight cover over the top of the camper as this will restrict airflow and may cause mildew to grow. Choose a fabric that will allow airflow but still help keep off dust and dirt from the roof of the pop-up.

Does a pop-up camper have a bathroom?

This will depend on the model of the pop-up camper, however, many folding camping trailers do not have a bathroom.

What happens when it rains?

Since a pop-up is a soft-sided RV, the canvas will get wet and will need to dry out. If you prefer the canvas to stay dry, you can always spread an awning or a tarp over the top of the pop-up. While the roof is made from hard material for extra protection from the elements, the canvas can be torn by flying branches in a storm, so keep that in mind.

Happy camping!

Jill Miller is the founder of Your RV Lifestyle. Trading corporate America for the open road, Jill, along with her partner Jose, began their RV journey, making an unconventional start by wintering in New Jersey. A natural adventurer, she was motivated by a desire to explore the USA and beyond, embracing the varied landscapes, communities, and cultures across the country.

For Jill, the allure of RV living was not about material accumulation, but rather the pursuit of an adventurous, fulfilling lifestyle. A lover of golf, bicycling, hiking, and line dancing, she has carried her passions across the country, engaging with them in diverse settings. Jill’s commitment to the RV lifestyle came after years of careful research, numerous consultations with RV owners, and personal trials, including living in a rental RV.

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Top 7 best pop-up campers of 2023.

• Bill Widmer
• Updated: April 12, 2023

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Pop-up campers are an excellent type of RV.

They are lightweight, easy to use, and some even have a bathroom!

Plus, they’re much more affordable than traditional trailers and can be pulled by almost any tow vehicle.

In this article, we reveal the 7 best pop-up campers for sale so far in 2023!

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Types of Pop Up Campers

Not all pop up campers are made the same! In fact, there are three different types of pop up campers. They are:

1. Tent Trailers

Tent trailers, or tent campers, are the soft-shelled pop up campers that essentially look like a big tent. They are the most light-weight and easiest to use of all the RV types, but they are also the most prone to failure and breaking.

If you’re new to the RV lifestyle and want something easy, a tent camper might be right for you!

2. High Wall Campers

High wall campers are an innovative re-take on traditional tent campers. The walls on these campers are solid, so they’re sturdier and more durable. The top portion of the walls are canvas and expand upward for more interior space. The Trail Manor below is a good example of a high wall camper.

3. A-Frame Trailers

A-frame campers get their name from the shape of their roof, which expands up to look like an “A”, similar to the roof of a traditional house. This allows for more interior space with less weight, as well as a solid roof and walls rather than canvas.

The 7 Best Pop Up Campers

Now that you know what the types of pop ups are, let’s look at some of the best options for you to buy right now:

SylvanSport GO

Quick Stats

This pop-up camper is super unique—it’s probably one of the smallest ones yet.

The SylvanSport GO is either a tent with a dinette table or a tent with a giant bed—there’s not really an in between!

Not sure what I mean? Check out the interior and you’ll get a better understanding:

You can use the dinette feature during the day and, when you’re ready for bed, simply put the dinette table away and pull the cushions down to sleep!

This model is 100% waterproof, too. It’s truly one of a kind (and one of our favorites).

Related Post —

Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast Pop-up

The Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast Pop-Up Camper is the ideal companion for all your outdoor adventures. With a spacious dinette slide and large gaucho bed, this lightweight pop-up camper offers plenty of sleeping and relaxation space, while the EZ reach storage trunk takes care of all your storage needs. Towing is a breeze, making it the perfect choice for those who love biking, kayaking, or exploring nature. Complete with a three-burner range, a three-way refrigerator, and an optional shower/Port-A-Pottie, the Flagstaff SE ensures you’ll have a comfortable and enjoyable experience wherever your sporting passions take you.

Here’s the floor plan for a better look:

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Forest River Rockwood Hard Side

The Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side High Wall Series A214HW folding pop-up camper offers a cozy retreat after a day of outdoor adventures. Featuring a queen-size flip-up bed and a convenient wet bath, this camper provides a comfortable space for relaxation. The well-equipped kitchen includes a two-burner cooktop, microwave oven, and a 3-way refrigerator, while an exterior griddle makes whipping up pancakes a breeze. Ample storage options, such as the EZ Reach storage trunk and exterior storage compartments, ensure you have space for all your gear. With additional features like a power roof lift, stabilizer jacks with sand pads, and a Wi-Fi booster with LTE prep, the Rockwood Hard Side High Wall Series A214HW is ready for your next camping escapade.

Take a look at the floor plan below to see how spacious these pop-up campers are:

• Coachmen Clipper Express

The Coachmen Clipper Express 12.0 TD XL is a versatile and compact camper designed for spontaneous outdoor enthusiasts. The side bike door allows easy access to your belongings without raising the roof, making it perfect for quick pit stops. The camper boasts a 54″ x 74″ bed and a sofa, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for you and a guest. With its two-burner range, sink, and three-way refrigerator, meal prep and clean-up is a breeze. The 27-gallon fresh water tank ensures you have ample water supply for your adventure. Optional add-ons like the Off-Road package, air conditioner, exterior wall mount LP grill, and “Toylock” cargo security system provide even more customization options. Lightweight and easy to tow, the Clipper Express 12.0 TD XL is an excellent choice for those seeking a convenient and efficient camping experience.

This Coachmen is a unique hybrid, bridging the gap between a teardrop camper and a pop-up camper. With only the back half popping up, setup and teardown become incredibly simple and time-efficient. This innovative design combines the best of both worlds, making it an exceptional choice for campers seeking convenience and practicality in their outdoor adventures.

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Trail Manor 2518 kB

The Trail Manor 2518 KB is a perfect camper trailer for small families-with three beds, and a kitchenette, what more do you need! This pop-up camper can even fit into any standard sized garage. 

Take a look at the floor plans and see what you think!

A-Liner Ranger 12

Similar to the Forest River RV, the Aliner Ranger 12 is perfect for a couple and has plenty of space. With an outside shower, refrigerator, and built-in stove top, this pop-up camper is very convenient in size and amenities. 

• Opus Off Road

The Opus Off Road pop-up tent trailers are completely unique.

This camper can travel anywhere from a campground to the middle of the mountains. If you like the feel of tent camping , but don’t want to sacrifice the convenience of a travel trailer, then look no further!

See how awesome the inside of this camper is below! 

There you have it—the 7 greatest pop ups available in 2023 (so far)!

Are you getting an RV from this list? Or do you know of something better that’s not here? Let us know in the comments below!

In the mean time… we hope you have a great camping experience!

What Are the Best Pop Up Campers?

Want a summarized list of what we believe are the best pop up campers from our list above? We’ve got you covered! 

Going in no particular order, we’d suggest:

• Forest River Flagstaff
• Aliner Ranger 12

All of these are incredibly spacious, perfect for one to four people, easy to tow, and some are even built for off-roading (we’re looking at you, Opus Off Road)!

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Best Pop Up Campers – Ultimate Review

Best pop up campers.

Are you fond of camping outside but are sick of setting up a new tent every single time? Do you also regret not having the resources to buy a new RV? Fret no more, because the perfect alternative to both these options is available in the form of a pop-up camper.

What you'll find...

The name itself is not the only interesting thing about this product. It is easy to set up, move around, and pack up. Pop Up campers, aka fold down trailers or pop up truck campers, are a great first option for inexperienced RV owners due to their small size, easy towing, and cheap price.

They're also great for anyone who really wants to get away from it all, as many of the large trailers are limited to how remote you can get. No such problems with a pop up camper, as they'll get pretty much anywhere your truck can.

If you're on the look out for a pop up camper, we offer you our views below in the review. Each one boasts all the features you need for a short trip into the wilderness.

What is a Pop Up Camper?

Contrary to what people think, a pop-up camper does not actually pop up once you reach your desired site. These are campers that come with a winch or switch that needs to be lifted. Once you apply a slight force, the hydraulic lift of the camper will rise, and the hard roof will emerge. This will cover the whole metal poles and will take the shape of a mini RV van or something to the effect.

Once the camper has been set up, you will have to pull out the beds inside with your hands. The windows of the camper are made with vinyl or canvas and will let you enjoy a more open environment as compared to an RV, but more on that later.

Perks of Getting a New Pop Up Camper 

Getting comfort, convenience, and ease on the road is a dream of many, and people who travel very often are always looking for ways to make their experience better. One way to do that is to invest in a quality pop up truck camper. Here are all the perks of getting one.

On the Go at All Times

Having a pop-up camper would not restrict you from your home even when you want to go out on the road and enjoy. It’s better than having a car because a camper would allow you to take all your belongings with you and stay at a particular location for as long as you want. You can also explore new territories that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

Accommodates Larger Families

A car can let many people sit, but that’s all they will be able to do. On the other hand, having a pop-up camper on your trips will enable all your family members to ensure modern amenities on the road. Good campers can accommodate large families comfortably. They often come with the option of large beds for you and your family. Most of them come with double recliners for added comfort on the road.

Cost-Efficient

Many people think that the initial cost of a pop-up camper is not worth it. But it’s because they haven’t had the pleasure of traveling in one. Having a pop-up camper would significantly reduce the cost of traveling in the long run. Most of these products will come fully equipped with stove options, thus saving on meals. Moreover, they let you and your family stay inside, thus saving on renting hotel costs too.

What to Look for When Buying a Pop up Camper

There are literally so many companies out there who will try their best to sell you a cheap product. We certainly don’t want you falling for that trap. Here are some of the features you need to look out for when buying your next pop up camper.

Higher Durability and Strength

This is probably the most important factor to consider before you invest in a quality product. Having higher durability and strength would not only make your camper more reliable but will also make it last longer. Campers with aluminum bodies tend to have this feature, and hence you should prefer them over other campers.

Modern Amenities

This is essential for anyone, regardless of how frequent they travel in their camper. The presence of these modern facilities and amenities ensure that you feel comfortable and secure even on the road. A good product would be one with ample space for sitting, cooking, and storing stuff. It would be better if you choose a product with a mini-refrigerator and entertainment system.

More Storage

Storage is always a premium while you're away camping. A good pop up camper will come with ample cabinets to keep all your important stuff. Another thing to look out for would be the location of these cabinets. Make sure they are on the upper side of the camper and are not occupying too much space.

Contrary to what you might believe, getting the most expensive pop-up camper isn’t always the best option. This is because most expensive models are made for continuous use. If you are a non-frequent traveler, you should invest in a relatively cheaper product that offers you greater storage and bathroom facility.

Review of the Best Pop Up Campers

Finding a good pop up camper, that too at a relatively low price is a tedious task, but don’t worry, we are here to help. Here are some of the best pop up campers in the market listed down for you.

Best Overall Pop Up Camper: SylvanSport GO

What we love

• Fuel efficiency is also ensured 
• Material is durable and hence reliable
• Lightweight material adds to the appeal
• Keeps your hands cleaner for a longer time
• The material is corrosion free hence lasts longer

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The pop up camper is considered the best overall and justifiably so too. It ensures fuel efficiency and its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to manage. Recent buyers also like this product for going the extra mile to give them the best experience possible.

The pop-up camper is made with heavy-duty aluminum that adds strength and durability to the product. This comes in handy when you have to take the camper at a rough location.Moreover, the added strength also ensures that you don’t feel a bumpy ride even when the surface of the road isn’t flat.

Who Would Use This Most 

The product offers higher fuel efficiency, thus making it perfect for people who travel a lot. The initial cost is worth paying as the higher durability and strength of the camper makes it a great investment. The material is also corrosion-free and can withstand extreme pressures. This means that for sports enthusiasts or risk-takers who like to explore new areas, this camper would prove to be the perfect fit.

As well as this, it is lightweight, and the company has gone to tremendous lengths to include a torsion axle suspension technology in it. This ensures that you don’t get a bouncy ride. Moreover, it enables you to have greater control over your camper.

Best Coleman Pop Up Camper: 2019 Coleman Clipper Cp108st

• It can pop up in just 30 seconds
• You can raise the roof with the dual drive winch
• Comes with a porta potty for more convenience
• There is a crank handle that comes with a backup
• More versatility is ensured via the 4 options of campers

Why it Stands Out to Us  

The model stands out to us mainly because of its ease of use, but there are other reasons too. The pop-up camper has the ability to pop up in only 30 seconds, thus saving both your time and your energy. Moreover, it comes in all shapes and sizes, thus making it a versatile model for anyone. But the benefits don’t end here.

The camper comes with ample storage options, thus allowing you to keep your important equipment inside. You can even raise the roof of the camper with the special dual-drive wench that is inserted inside the camper.

The pop up camper is a heaven for people looking to feel like home outside your home. There are ample amenities inside, such as the kitchen area that comes with 2 sets of burner ranges. This means that you can cook food for your whole family wherever you want.

This not only saves on cost but also enables you to get home-like food on the go. Moreover, there is a 12V of water demand pump for added convenience. There is also a shower inside that you can use for baths and water usage on your trips. The greater customization option also allows you to make adjustments to the plan.

Best Jayco Pop Up Camper: 2019 JAY SPORT

• A lot of amenities in a tiny unit
• Scratch-resistant finish on the exterior side
• Can resist wearing and tearing of the material
• Comes with a storage cabinet to keep your stuff
• Higher durability allows it to withstand the toughest weather conditions

The pop up camper has many commendable features, but the thing that makes it outshine, among other products, is its amazing tent quality. The fame of this unit is completely corrosion-resistant, which means that even if you use it for decades, the material will not experience any sort of withering or tearing.

Not only that, the construction material is water repellant meaning that it can be used in rainy weathers without any issue. To top all this off, the tent is also scratch-resistant and comes with a fabulous finishing, thus adding durability and strength to the material.

Who Would Use This Most

The camper is a dream-come-true for people who crave entertainment on the road. The interior of the camper comes well equipped with all the modern requirements that you could wish for. There is an interior hook up for an LCD TV that can be inserted and made use of.

To aid your experience is ample space for a single unit recliner. You can sit on it comfortably and watch your favorite movies. Not just this, the camper also has room for an auxiliary 12V jack entertainment system. The presence of the storage cabinet lets you keep essential equipment like speakers, remote controls safely inside.

Best StarCraft Pop Up Camper: 2010 Starcraft 1224

• Sofas are ample and comfortable
• Presence of a refrigerator is optional
• Comes with a water heater to be used in winters
• Cabinet comes attached with an optional shower
• 3 burner stove makes it perfect for larger families

The product stands out to us because of its unmatched quality in the industry. The company has done all it can and beyond to bring one of the best products in the market to you. The camper comes with a star crafted folding with a single sliding door.

It is also available in a large rear queen size, thus further adding to its appeal. The presence of storage cabinets and other amenities add to the comfort of the user and provide them with ample space to carry all their essentials. Moreover, the company has been in the RV business for the last 50 years, and their experience just keeps making them better and better each year.

The pop up camper is perfect for people who want all the amenities of their home on their trips. The camper comes with a comfortable shower that lets you take baths on the road. Moreover, it includes ample storage space, and the presence of many storage cabinets lets you store important items in secure locations.

And that’s not all: There are also 3 different stoves in the camper that allows you to cook on the road. This not only saves on the additional food costs but also lets you enjoy good food on the road. Lastly, the presence of a refrigerator further adds to your comfort.

Best Viking Pop Up Camper: Viking Epic Series Folding Pop-Up Camper RVs

• Radial tires make portability easier
• LED exterior lights add to the beauty
• Bunk technology comes with zero exposure
• Jacks are of scissor-style and come attached with pads
• Walls are laminated and made with the special fiberglass

The exterior walled mount and the grill enables you to get meals instantly and easily, but that’s not the only reason the product stands out to us. The camper comes with a lot of fans, and the breezy powder roof and vents keep you fresh and ventilated at all times. Moreover, the jacks on this camper come in scissor style and are padded.

The walls, too, don’t lack behind and add to the convenience. They are made with special fiberglass and are completely laminated. This not only adds to your privacy but also makes the product one of the most desired ones in the market.

If you are looking for ease and convenience while traveling, then this is definitely the camper for you. The presence of the glide and lock cable is one of the most important reasons why consumers like this product so much.

The bed system not only supports your schedule but also makes its use extremely easy. The design of the pop up camper with the presence of the electric brakes ensures that you shouldn't come across any accidents, as long as you're driving carefully of course..

Best Apache Pop Up Camper: 2005 Fleetwood Destiny Tuscon

• Can withstand harsh weathers
• Can accommodate 6 people sleeping
• Does not take a lot of time in setting up
• Comes with ample space to sit and relax
• One of the longest pop-up camper in the market

Comfort, convenience, and ease are just some of the many words associated with this product. The company has gone through a lot of effort to bring higher durability and strength to you via its advanced mechanism and shock-absorbing feature. This feature comes in handy when you have to travel on rough terrains or bumpy roads.

What's more, the pop up camper can withstand harsh weather as the exterior is both scratch and corrosion-resistant. This also means it can go on for a long time with ease. It also provides easy towing, which further adds to its appeal.

This pop up truck camper is perfect for large families or for people who like to travel with their friends. The unit is one of the longest ones in the market and can accommodate all the modern amenities of life hence giving you a home-like comfort.

These include space for more beds, thus allowing 5-6 people to sleep comfortably inside. Moreover, the model comes equipped with greater storage options in the form of more cabinets. That’s not all; it gives you ample space for cooking, thus saving the additional cost that you would have spent on food.

Best Palomino Pop Up Camper: 2018 Palomino Real-Lite Mini RLT10SE Folding Camper

• Roof is made with smooth fiberglass
• Bunk bed and curtains are fully lined
• Comes with a warm and heated mattress
• LED ceiling lights add to the convenience
• Electric brakes are added for greater safety

The roof is made with fiberglass that gives the model its smooth and stable features. The model comes well equipped with a queen-sized bed at the front and a rear double bed at the back. This enables more than 3 people to sleep comfortably inside.

Best of all, the presence of heated mattresses adds to your comfort and your overall experience, and makes those cold nights all cozy. To top it all off is the presence of LED ceiling lights, which adds to the elegance and finesse of the whole model and allows you to enter a magical world of comfort and beauty.

For people who like to travel in both comfort and style will love this pop up camper. The interior of the unit is as attractive as the exterior of it. The color combination is attractive and brings out all the shades of black, brown, and white, thus adding to the model’s appeal. 

And, the electric brakes inserted in the unit make it perfect for people who don’t have much experience with the products. Lastly, the leaf spring axle feature is extremely rare and is only added in the best models, therefore, making this one worth your money and energy.

Best Off Road Pop up Camper: Sergeant

• Allows for a more smooth and stable ride
• Easier and safe handling gives extra protection
• Allows for easy loading and unloading of the gear
• Longer shock life is ensured via advanced design
• Enables each of the 4 wheels to move separately and independently

The poly block hitch of the model stands out to us because it allows for a full 360 degree of articulation and ensures that you can ride and conquer the most difficult terrains with ease. The exterior, as well as the interior, are made to perfection, thanks to the higher warranty offered by the company.

The 12V propane mounts enable you to go on longer trips without having to worry about restocking. To top all this off is the presence of solar panels that not only save energy but also ensure you get the required energy wherever you go.

The product can be best used by people who like to go on challenging trips with difficult terrains. The whole buildup of the model is such that it offers great maneuverability to its consumers.

It comes with an independent suspension system, which, when coupled with the quad shock design, spreads the load across 4 different shocks, thus enabling a much more smooth and efficient ride throughout. Moreover, the camper is known for its longer shelf life, which also adds to its appeal and makes it a great option for people wanting to go to unexplored areas.

Best Motorcycle Pop Up Camper: Time Out Pop Up Camper

• Can easily compress and fold up
• Comes with larger standard wheels
• Comes with plenty of storage space inside
• One of the largest campers by the company
• Extremely lightweight and compact hence easy to carry

The product stands out to us due to its many features that all come at a very low price. The tent is completely hand-stitched and then attached to the expendable poles at the side. That not only gives the whole structure more strength but also makes it durable.

This also means that it is able to withstand strong winds and bad weather with ease. Not only that, for its size and relative to other similar products, this one has a large storage space that enables you to store important equipment inside with ease.

Who Will Use This Most

When it comes to pop up campers, weight and size is definitely an issue. Most people do not like the hassle of towing a large camper with them; therefore, those people will love this time out pop camper. It is the most lightweight and compact camper in this review, and it offers a lot of facilities at a very cheap rate, so anyone wanting to save a bit of money will like this.

This pop up camper is also perfect for people who travel within their city, on nearby beaches and spots. Since the camper is lightweight, it won’t need a lot of effort to carry around.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

When it comes to pop up campers, people are likely to make a foolish choice. One reason for this could be the market which is saturated with poorly made products and misleading marketing schemes. Here are some of the aspects you should consider before buying a camper.

Bathroom Facility or Not

Not all pop up campers will have this facility, and that isn’t a bad thing. Most expensive and large-sized campers will come with a bathroom, and some will not. If having a bathroom is essential for you, then go for an option that gives you relatively more privacy. Most campers will offer a bathroom space that is separated from the camper via a small curtain only.

Number and Type of Amenities

This is an important aspect to consider as having more amenities is likely to add to your cost significantly. The basic facilities like a kitchen stove, place for a bed and recliner are available in almost any camper; however, other amenities like a TV space or more cabinets will require you to invest more.

Number of People 

If you travel with a large family with more than 5 people, then you will require a bigger camper that can easily allow around 6 people to sleep inside. However, if you are a lone traveler, then you might need to invest in a smaller product.

Pop up campers are great, especially if you want to save on the cost of an RV and still enjoy all the modern amenities of home. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and move around. Not just this, they come with high durability and water resistance, thus making them a great way to enjoy on the beach. There higher storage and customization options also make them a great alternative to RV’s.

People Also Ask

People are extremely pleased and mesmerized with the pop up campers. This is because they are a perfect alternative to expensive RVs. People, therefore, want to invest in the right product. We have answered your most frequent questions to help you make the right choice.

How Many Can Sleep in a Pop Up Camper?

The amount of people that can live and sleep inside a pop up camper solely depends on the size of the camper. A large camper can easily allow 5-6 people to sleep inside with ease. However, smaller campers will allow only 4-5 people to sleep inside.

Are Pop Up Campers Safe in Lightning?

Many people think that pop up campers are water repellent and durable and hence can be used in the time of lighting, but that isn’t right. Pop up campers are extremely unsafe in a lighting storm and should only be used as a last-minute resort for hiding and protection.

Are Pop Up Campers Waterproof?

Most pop up campers come with the water-repellent feature. This means that when bad weather comes to disrupt your enjoyment or day out, you won’t have to worry, as these pop up campers will give you a safe place to reside in. Moreover, they will not leak hence adding to your safety.

Do Pop Up Campers Have Bathrooms?

Some pop campers come with bathrooms; others don’t. The choice of whether to invest in a camper with a bathroom is solely your own, and it should depend on how frequent you travel. The toilets inside the campers often come with a curtain in the middle or even a small wall for added privacy.

Can a Car Tow a Pop Up Camper?

Cars are pretty strong, and hence most pop up campers can be towed via cars; however, others can’t be. In the end, the answer will depend on the size. If the camper weighs more, it will be difficult for a smaller car to tow it. However, if the camper is average-sized and compact, then a car can tow it with ease.

What Does a Pop Up Camper Weight?

The weight of any pop camper will depend mainly on its size, but usually, these campers fall in the range of 1200 to 2700 pounds. The pop up similar to an aliner will weigh less, whereas the tent style pops can weigh up to 3700 pounds and can be difficult to tow with a car.

How Much is a Pop Up Camper Trailer?

The best thing about these pop campers is that they offer a lot of choices, and that is not limited to colors and sizes only, but also includes price. You can often find good pop up campers between $3k and $5k. You can buy more expensive ones for more price. Moreover, the price for a used pop up camper is as low as $1000.

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Hello, fellow wanderers! I’m Alyssia. Since 2008, my husband and I have called an RV our home, journeying through life one mile at a time. Our nomadic lifestyle has led us to over 70 countries, each with their unique tales that have shaped our own.

I share our stories and insights right here, hoping to inspire and guide you in your own adventures. Expect tips on RV living, our favorite camping spots, breathtaking hiking trails, and the joys and challenges of an ever-changing view from our window. Alongside, you’ll also find practical advice on outdoorsy stuff, designed to equip you for any journey. Join us as we continue to explore the vast, beautiful world on wheels!

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

9 Best Pop-Up Campers

October 3, 2022 by August Croft

All of our reviews are based on exhaustive research, industry experience and whenever possible, hands-on testing. When you make a purchase using one of our chosen links we’ll get a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

When it comes to finding an RV that suits your lifestyle, you may be surprised with what you find in the when pop-up camper category that is available on the market currently. Pop-up campers are unique for a number of reasons, but are they right for you, and what might some of the best options be for you to consider? 

In this article, we will go over what exactly a pop-up camper is as well as what you should consider in a pop-up camper before purchasing one. Finally, we will even give you a list of some of the best options currently available on the market in case you are interested in checking them out in more detail. 

If you are planning on purchasing a pop-up camper for your RV lifestyle, read on to learn about everything you should consider before making your final purchase. Only interested in checking out our expertly curated list of pop-up campers available in 2022? Use our table of contents to navigate to this list now! 

What is a Pop-Up Camper?

A pop-up camper is a towable RV that can be collapsed and raised, depending on whether or not it is in use. There are tent pop-up trailers and hard-sided pop-ups too, but the main difference separating them from traditional travel trailers is the fact that they have the ability to take up less space when stored away.

Because of their moving components and the delicate parts involved, many RVers don’t trust the long-term stability of pop-up campers. However, these rigs are incredibly affordable and they offer you enough protection from the elements to allow you to camp in more seasons and weather conditions than regular tent camping alone.

Another huge perk to pop-up trailers? They’re lightweight and easy to tow, rarely weighing over 3,000 pounds . The average car can handle that, even simple sedans. This makes camping more accessible than ever, especially for those of you that aren’t quite ready for the great outdoors!

Given their affordable price point and overall amenities, there are a number of reasons to consider a pop-up camper for your lifestyle. But is it exactly what you’re looking for? Let’s discuss everything that’s involved when it comes to choosing a pop-up trailer now!

What to Consider in a Pop-Up Camper

From your floorplan to whether or not you have a bathroom onboard, here’s everything you should consider before falling in love with a pop-up camper.

Length and Weight

Depending on your existing tow vehicle, the overall length and weight of your pop-up camper matter. Thankfully, no pop-up is going to be as large as a fifth wheel , but the weight is something that you should always keep in mind if you are purchasing a towable RV.

While length greatly affects your safety on the road, most pop-up trailers won’t be longer than 20 feet. This is a safe and easy length to tow, especially when you consider the fact that pop-up trailers are flat and low to the ground when being towed.

However, weight ultimately affects your safety the most, and you should make sure to never tow beyond the weight limit of your tow vehicle. This can be incredibly dangerous both for everyone traveling as well as for the overall health of your tow vehicle. Thankfully, most pop-up campers weigh under 3000 pounds , so just keep this in mind as you shop. 

Floor Plan and Layout

You would be surprised at just how many different floor plans and layouts there are available for pop-up campers. Given the fact that they collapse and inflate, there are plenty of options and opportunities to find something truly unique in the RV layout world. 

While it might be difficult to figure out without already owning an RV, it is important to determine what floor plan layout you are looking for before you make your final purchase. Thankfully, most RV manufacturers offer comprehensive images and video tours so that you can find an RV that works well for you without seeing it in person. 

When it comes to finding a pop-up camper that you like, there are countless floor plans and layouts to choose from. Something to keep in mind is that pop-up campers don’t have quite as many amenities as the average travel trailer or motorhome, likely due to the fact that there are no solid walls on a pop-up trailer. 

However, you can still find floor plans that sleep plenty of people , and there are even options with full kitchens and bathrooms. These types of RVs are more difficult to find, but they are indeed possible. You may just need to make sure that fully loaded pop-up campers don’t weigh too much for your tow vehicle! 

Number of Sleeping Arrangements Needed

Speaking of floor plans, you should make sure that you purchase a pop-up camper with an adequate number of sleeping arrangements. While you may have a varying amount of guests camping with you at any given time, you should have an average number of campers in mind before purchasing an RV. 

Depending on the pop-up camper that you choose, some options have more designated sleeping areas than others. You may find that a pop-up camper resembling an open-concept tent is a better option for you than a trailer with designated sleeping areas, especially if these sleeping areas are simply Queen bedrooms. 

If you are traveling with many single individuals , you may prefer something with a floor plan that allows you to sleep multiple people in their own beds. However, if you know that it is just you and a partner traveling primarily in your pop-up camper, this likely isn’t something that you need to worry about. 

Bathroom Type and Amenities

If you are anticipating a residential-style bathroom on board a pop-up camper, you may want to adjust your expectations. This is because most pop-up campers either don’t have bathrooms on board or simply have a portable toilet and outdoor shower option on average. You may get lucky and find a more traditional style of bathroom, but these RVs rarely have traditional bathrooms onboard.

This isn’t to say that you are completely out of luck in terms of your bathroom amenities. You can definitely find options with simple wet baths on board , which means that the entire bathroom area is designed to get wet. In addition, finding a pop-up camper with portable toilets is extremely easy, and this may be all you need to feel comfortable while camping. 

If a proper bathroom is something that you desperately need on board an RV, you may want to consider a more traditional travel trailer rather than a pop-up camper. Another reason why most pop-up campers don’t have traditional bathrooms is because of all of the weight limits involved. Between the holding tanks and the plumbing necessary, this tends to make RVs much heavier! 

Boondocking Capabilities

Also known as dry camping, boondocking is your ability to camp off-grid, disconnected from traditional RV hookups and utilities. Pop-up campers are ideal for this type of setting, given the fact that they are lightweight to tow just about anywhere. 

Some pop-up campers are made specifically for boondocking , with added solar power amenities and superior tires or chassis options. This allows you to bring your RV wherever your journey may take you, even if the road gets a little rough. 

Many people enjoy pop-up campers while boondocking because it gives you the freedom to go where you want, but you still have more shelter than if you simply brought a tent along for the ride. If you are a true adventurer, you may want to keep an eye out for any pop-up campers that offer boondocking features! 

Durability and Brand Name

When it comes to shopping for pop-up campers, choosing something that is durable and backed by a reliable brand name is a good idea. The reason why many people opt not to purchase pop-up campers is because of their materials, but most of these types of trailers get a bad rap. 

Nowadays, pop-up campers are made of heavy-duty tents materials and much of the same stuff as travel trailers are made of. You can find pop-up campers that last decades if they are properly cared for and stored well. However, keeping an eye out for brand names that are reliable as well as durable is always a good idea. 

If you are worried about the overall longevity of your RV, you may also want to keep an eye out for RV manufacturers that offer comprehensive warranty plans and programs. Should something go wrong with your new pop-up RV, having a warranty to back you up may be something you are interested in. 

Four-Season Capabilities

Before you purchase a pop-up camper, you should know just how well it can handle all four seasons. Depending on what you go with, some trailers are truly built to handle both the heat of summertime and the frigid temperatures of winter. However, is this true for all pop-up campers? 

At the end of the day, some pop-up campers are only built to be tents on wheels, with some overhead stability but not much in terms of creature comforts. Not every pop-up camper has a heater or an air conditioner, and the lack of insulated walls and maybe something that doesn’t appeal to you. 

However, at this price point, most pop-up campers go above and beyond in terms of what they can offer you. Despite most of your walls being made out of tent materials, you may find that your pop-up camper still has a heater and an air conditioner, and you may end up feeling far more comfortable than you ever imagined! 

Interior Design and Style

Pop-up campers don’t have too much to offer in terms of their style and design choices, especially when compared with other RVs. However, you may be seeking something with a bit more luxury and personal touch than the average pop-up trailer. 

For example, a more rugged appearance may be what you are looking for, or perhaps you want beautiful laminate flooring inside of your pop-up trailer. Regardless of what you are looking for, just know that most pop-up trailers can’t offer the same level of style as other RVs, given that there are no solid walls and rarely full amenities found within. 

More often than not, the unique appearance of a pop-up camper is enough to draw the eye and gather attention. The way that pop-up campers collapse and inflate appeals to a number of people, and you may not be worried about the overall design choices involved! 

The final consideration for you to think about before purchasing a pop-up camper has to be the price point or budget you can safely shop at. For the most part, pop-up campers are extremely affordable, ranging anywhere from under $10k to over $30k. When it comes to RV purchases, this is almost negligible. 

Your budget may be directly affected by how often you plan on using your trailer. If you only plan on camping a couple of times a year, with your pop-up camper stored safely in your garage the rest of the time, you may not need to spend too much. But if you want to camp every month or more, choosing something that is a bit pricier may help with your durability.

However, choosing something at a fair price point that will also last you a decent amount of time can be more difficult than you think. Be sure to do your research and budget accordingly, as your pop-up camper will still be an investment! 

The 9 Best Pop-Up Campers of 2022

If you are feeling confident in all of the things that you should consider before purchasing a pop-up camper, here is our list of 9 of the best options currently available. Whether you are an adventurous boondocker or simply looking for something on a budget, here are our best pop-up campers of 2022! 

Best Overall: Forest River Rockwood Tent

• Multiple floor plans, including bathrooms
• Outdoor or indoor kitchen options
• Under 3,000 pounds
• Not equipped for winter conditions

Forest River makes a number of reliable RVs , and the Rockwood is no exception. There are a few different versions of the Rockwood pop-up camper, but the tent version has everything you need at a lower price compared to the hard-side option. Let’s take a look at everything it has to offer in more detail now!

One of the main reasons why the Rockwood tent takes our best overall spot is because of its customizable options. You can add a cassette toilet and shower, an air conditioner , solar panels, and much more. Plus, it has just about everything you need to enjoy a longer camping experience, included standard. 

There’s an outdoor kitchen on some models, and some floor plans even have an indoor kitchen with a gas grill. You have two large sleeping areas located at either end of the pop-up, and both double size mattresses are heated so that you can stay warm in most seasons.

In terms of your weights and measures, the Rockwood never reaches longer than 21 feet while towing, and weighs no more than 2600 pounds. While you should always make sure that your RV weight is an appropriate amount for your tow vehicle, it is unlikely that the Rockwood will be too heavy for your car. 

There are different versions of the Rockwood as well, some with hard-sided walls and others that are built for more simple camping adventures. No matter which version you choose, this pop-up camper can tow or store recreational vehicles atop it while you move it, giving you additional storage solutions for your kayaks or bicycles. 

All in all, this is a fantastic option at a fair price. If you are seeking something that is more four-season ready, you can always check out the hard-sided pop-up option available for the Rockwood. However, the tent version may end up being all that you need! 

Best on a Budget: Aliner Ranger 10

• Extremely lightweight and easy to tow
• Full interior kitchen as well as a bunk bed option 
• Hard-sided walls and roof 
• Very compact and may not suit the whole group 

Under 13 feet long and 1300 pounds, the Aliner Ranger 10 is a great choice for those of you shopping on a budget, but still hoping for something that works for your small family. While this may surprise you, the Ranger 10 can still sleep up to four people inside, with a convertible bed area and bunk beds on the opposite wall. Let’s take a look at it in more detail now. 

There are two available floor plans for this camper, one that is made for families and another that works well for couples. The rear dinette converts into a large sleeping area and the front of the trailer is full of counter space for your interior kitchen. There’s no bathroom on board this RV, but it is simply too small to handle one! 

One of the main perks of this particular pop-up camper is the fact that it is an A-frame with hard sides. This means that you have more room above your head, giving you plenty of space to stand up and move around your RV, and you also have proper walls. This will keep your RV more temperature-controlled, no matter the season. 

While you have an outdoor shower, there is no portable toilet on board this RV. However, you may be easily able to fit one in the available interior storage compartments. Speaking of storage, there’s plenty for you inside, with the option to add rear gear holders if you need them for bicycles or kayaks . 

However, this pop-up camper is extremely small and may not work for everyone. If you plan on traveling with a larger group, definitely find a larger option! 

Most Sleeping Arrangements: Coachmen Viking

• Plenty of sleeping arrangements for the whole family 
• Lightweight and easy to tow
• Indoor kitchens on almost all floor plans 
• Interior design is very boring 

If the Ranger 10 seems a little small for your needs, you should definitely check out the Coachmen Viking. This particular pop-up camper is great for those of you hoping to sleep a large group of people, as it has multiple queen-size beds as well as smaller twin beds throughout . Let’s check it out now! 

The Viking is available in a number of different floor plans, some of which are capable of sleeping up to 8 people. You also have a kitchen inside or out, depending on which layout you choose. While the largest Viking option broaches 3000 pounds, it is still compact and easy to store when not in use. 

Aerodynamic and easy to drive, the Viking is designed to be simple and effective. You have tent pop-outs that allow you even more space for sleeping and lounging, and some options have outdoor showers as well as portable toilets. You can also get special off-roading or outdoorsy packages to further benefit your 4 season camping adventures. 

Plus, most options have rooftop air conditioning units as well as heaters. The Viking also offers you some exterior rooftop storage so that you can still bring everything along without having to worry about fitting it inside of your collapsed RV. 

The Coachman brand name may not be everyone’s favorite, but it’s definitely worth looking into if you want to sleep a number of people inside of a pop-up camper. Make sure that this option isn’t too heavy for your tow vehicle, but it’s definitely worth checking out! 

Lightest Weight: Opus OP Lite

• Incredibly spacious interior design 
• Plenty of storage, inside and out 
• Fantastic off-grid and boondocking amenities 
• Only sleeps two people 

Weighing only 2300 pounds, the OP Lite from Opus is a great choice for those of you with small tow vehicles but the desire to get out there. Not only is it incredibly lightweight, but it allows you to go off-grid, off-road, and stay out of sight for multiple days at a time. Let’s take a look at everything this pop-up camper has to offer. 

Opus specializes in adventurous trailers, most of which are pop-ups. This is one of their smallest models, only sleeping 2 people comfortably . However, this brand name offers multiple additions so that you can bring along more people as well as have extra room to lounge. You may not even need this, however, once you see how spacious the interior is on this pop-up! 

These pop-up campers are unique in that they utilize inflation technology. This allows you to set up your entire tent at the click of a button, and everything only takes a minute and a half to get set up. You have an outdoor kitchen, a portable toilet, and a dedicated dining and sleeping area inside, with 8-foot ceilings to boot. 

Plus, you have off-roading capabilities in the chassis, hitch, and tires. You also have propane, solar, and water tanks to give you a couple of days of off-grid camping without an issue. The price point may be high on this one, but it’s definitely something to consider if you are adventurous and seeking something lightweight! 

Easiest to Store: Sylvansport Go Camping Trailer

• Great price point and stylish 
• Fantastic convertible interior 
• Plenty of storage while in motion 
• Doesn’t have a kitchen or bathroom 

Speaking of lightweight pop-up trailers, you should definitely check out the Sylvansport Go Camping trailer. This camper starts at $11k, making it budget-friendly as well. Plus, once collapsed, you can easily store this RV just about anywhere you can imagine. Let’s check it out! 

One of the coolest things about this particular pop-up camper is the fact that you can convert the interior to just about anything you need. You can have two twin beds, a designated dining area, or a large bed that spans the entire width of the trailer itself. While this particular RV won’t have all the bells and whistles you might be looking for, it is camping at its finest and simplest. 

This camper only weighs 840 pounds, something that is unheard of in the RV world. You also have the option to store things on the roof of the vehicle while it is in motion, and there’s even an additional storage rack found beneath the tent compartment. This gives you room for everything as well as a lightweight frame to put it on. 

If you are simply looking for a tent on wheels, this is the best option for you. It’s easy to set up, store, and maintain, but it doesn’t have any traditional RV amenities such as a bathroom or kitchen. You can also only sleep 4 people inside, but this might be just what you are looking for!

Best for Couples: Aliner Expedition

• Under 2,000 lb and full of amenities 
• Complete kitchen and bathroom on board 
• Can sleep up to four people 
• You may be looking for more bells and whistles 

If you are an adventurous couple hoping to camp for a long period of time, you should definitely check out the Aliner Expedition. Weighing under 2,000 pounds, but still complete with everything you need to camp in comfort, this option is perfect for couples and small families. Let’s check it out in more detail. 

This particular camper has a more traditional RV layout, with either a sofa bed or permanent size bed at the rear of the rig. Toward the front, you have a designated dining area that is also convertible in case you need to sleep more individuals inside. Plus, you have a fantastic kitchen with a refrigerator, as well as storage for your portable toilet. 

The exterior of the Expedition is hard and capable of handling all four seasons, making it great for those of you who camp year-round. Plus, it is attractive and has an A-frame appearance, giving you plenty of interior height for those of you tall campers out there. 

You even have the option to add an outdoor grill or cooking area, as well as an off-roading package. There are other boondocking features for you to consider as well, but this particular RV manufacturer may not be able to give you all the bells and whistles you need right away. Definitely, something to keep in mind, but this pop-up camper is memorable! 

Best for Four Season Camping: TrailManor 2518

• Fully formed travel trailer when set up 
• Designated dry bathroom and fully equipped kitchen 
• Lightweight and less than 18 ft long 
• Price point may be higher than average 

If you are looking for a more traditional RV but on a pop-up frame, you should definitely take a look at the TrailManor 2518. This camper may cost a bit more than all of the other options on this list, but it fully resembles a regular travel trailer once it is set up. Let’s take a closer look at it now. 

Weighing 2600 pounds or under, this travel trailer meets pop-up is a great choice for those of you hoping to have a fully-realized interior design. Upon stepping into this camper, you’ll notice that it has proper wardrobe storage, designated sleeping areas, and a spacious kitchen. 

Given the hard sides available on this RV, you can camp in all four seasons. It has an air conditioner option as well as a heater, and you have the toilet and shower on board. This means that this pop-up camper is great for camping year-round, though you may need to take some care with it if you choose to go off-roading at all. 

If having a designated dry bathroom wasn’t enough, you also have the option to add solar panels, an awning, and exterior storage racks for your bicycles. However, the price point on this RV might be higher than you’re hoping to spend on a pop-up. While it may likely fit in your home garage, definitely keep the price in mind!

Most Rugged: Opus OP 4

• Countless amenities, including AC and heater 
• Sleeps up to 6 people and inflates in 5 minutes 
• Tested to withstand four-season weather and road conditions 
• A bit heavier and more expensive than average 

If you enjoyed our last Opus pop-up camper but want something with a bit more to offer, check out the OP 4. While it may be a bit expensive, this is the pop-up camper that has everything you need and is capable of going anywhere. Let’s take a look at this rugged option now. 

Opus tests its pop-up campers relentlessly, with air and rain tests as well as off-roading tests. They are tough as well as luxurious, with well-appointed interiors and plenty of space for everyone. In fact, this option sleeps up to six people, with a complete outdoor kitchen and a portable toilet, and an outdoor shower. 

The amenities and features on board this RV are countless, with enough off-grid capabilities for multiple days at a time. You have exterior tent options so that you can expand your interior living space if the weather is good. Speaking of the weather, this RV has an air conditioner and a heater for four-season camping , no matter where you are. 

You have plenty of exterior storage for bicycles and kayaks, and the entire rig weighs just over 3,000 pounds. While this may be a little heavy compared to other options on this list, this pop-up camper is truly made for the adventurer as well as a larger group of people hoping to get off-grid. 

Runner-Up: Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side Camper

• Hard sides mean you can camp all year long
• Great kitchen and bathroom amenities
• AC and heat options are available
• Maybe a bit heavy compared to other options

Boasting itself as the best of both worlds, the Forest River Flagstaff hard-side camper is a great choice for those of you hoping for something that will get you through all year long, no matter the weather. Plus, this option still collapses and stores easily. Let’s check out our runner-up for our best overall choice now. 

Complete with a comprehensive kitchen and outdoor griddle and shower, you have almost all the amenities you could want onboard this hard pop-up. You also have a heater and an air conditioner, as well as the option to add solar should you need it.

The Flagstaff weighs less than 3,000 pounds, making it easy to tow. Plus, the entire RV collapses and is easily stored in your garage or home property. While it doesn’t exactly look very fancy inside, it gives you everything you need to camp comfortably, and at a fair price too!

Final Thoughts

Choosing a pop-up camper that is lightweight and convenient might be easier after reading our comprehensive list. Whether you plan on camping frequently or simply want something that makes camping more comfortable, there is a pop-up camper out there for you to enjoy! 

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10 Best Pop Up Campers for a Family of 4

Pop-up campers are one of the most economical and affordable ways to enjoy the RV lifestyle.

But due to their smaller size , not all pop-up campers are great for families.

So to help you find all the best pop-up campers for a family of four , we created this list to showcase the best of the best. 

Best Pop-Up Campers for a Family of 4 (Least to Most Expensive)

1. forest river rockwood 1640ltd, quick specs.

• Cost :  $9,255
• Sleeping Capacity :  6
• Closed Length :  12 Feet 4 Inches
• Open Length :  17 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight :  1,465 Pounds
• Bathroom :  None

One of the cheapest pop-up campers you can buy, that’s still great for a family of 4 is the Forest River Rockwood 1640LTD.

Because while this pop-up camper is not the most feature-rich camper on the market, it does have everything a family of 4 would need for a quick weekend getaway.   

And thanks to its more affordable price of under $10,000, this pop-up camper also makes a great entry-level and beginner camper for new RVers.

Why It’s Great for a Family of 4

• 6 person sleeping capacity provides plenty of sleeping options, thanks to its multiple sleeping locations including two opposing bunk ends and a convertible dinette booth.
• Has a  large dinette booth that can comfortably seat a family of 4 for mealtime or just hanging out.
• Features a well-equipped kitchenette that includes a small kitchen sink, propane stove, and a 1.9 cubic foot 3-way fridge making meal prep and cooking a breeze.  
• Equipped with a  7-foot awning, which provides a large covered exterior space for everyone to hang out during the day.  

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood 1640LTD, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .  

2. Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD

• Cost :  $9,500

If your thinking that the Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD looks very similar to the Forest River Rockwood 1640LTD, it’s not your imagination.

As these two pop-up campers are made by the same RV manufacturer and are identical in almost every way with the exception of the interior and exterior color schemes.  

And if you’re wondering why an RV manufacturer like Forest River, would go through the trouble of making two pop-up campers that are almost identical, just with different names and color schemes.

This is a pretty common practice in the RV industry, as it allows two RV dealers that are close together, to sell different models, so they don’t have to directly compete with one other on the same make and model RV.

But from the consumer standpoint, it really makes little difference on which option you choose, as they are pretty much identical campers with the exception of the color scheme.

So if you’re trying to decide between the two, you should just go with the color scheme you like the best. 

• Has a  large dinette booth that can comfortably fit a family of 4.
• Equipped with a 7-foot awning, which provides a large covered exterior area for everyone to hang out during the day.  
• Features a well-equipped kitchenette, which includes a small kitchen sink, propane stove, and a small fridge, making meal prep and cooking at the campsite convenient and easy.  

For more information on the Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD, be sure to check out Forest River’s website by clicking here . 

3. Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS

• Cost :  $10,500
• Closed Length :  12 Feet 11 Inches
• Open Length :  17 Feet 11 Inches
• Dry Weight :  1,642 Pounds

The Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS is one the best pop-up campers you can buy for a family of 4 and should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a pop-camper that can sleep 4.

Because not only can this pop-up camper easily sleep 4 campers at a time, it also has a very unique open floor plan and is one of the most feature-rich pop-up campers out there for its price point.

Including such high-end features as a wide track suspension for a smoother ride, Goshen Lift System, LED lighting throughout, airline Glide-N-Lock cables support for the fold-out beds, and a dual-drive winch system to easily raise and lower the pop-up camper.  

• Can comfortable sleep 6, thanks to dual fold-out bunks measuring 48 inches and 54 inches wide as well as two opposing gauchos in the middle of the camper for additional sleeping space.
• Its unique open floorplan allows for plenty of room for everyone to move around inside the camper.
• Equipped with a nice kitchenette, which features a small kitchen sink, 2-burner high output propane range, and a 120W/12V fridge, which makes preparing larger meals while camping super easy.  
• Offers a large amount of storage space both inside and outside the camper as well as a 1,255 cargo-carrying capacity, which provides plenty of storage capacity to carry all the camping gear needed for a family.  

For more info on the Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS, make sure you check out Coachmen’s website by clicking here .  

4. Forest River Rockwood Freedom 2318G

• Cost :  $14,195
• Sleeping Capacity :  7
• Closed Length :  17 Feet 6 Inches
• Open Length :  23 Feet 11 Inches
• Dry Weight :  2,439 Pounds
• Bathroom :  Optional Wet Bath

While the first three pop-up campers on this list can easily accommodate a family of 4 or more.

If you’re ready to move up to a large pop-up camper or looking for more interior space, you might want to consider the Forest River Rockwood Freedom 2318G.

As this full-size pop-up camper is more than 6 feet longer compared to the more compact pop-up campers from above and features a slide-out dinette booth that helps to open up the interior space of the camper.

In addition, this larger pop-up camper is also the first pop-up camper on this list that can be equipped to be self-contained, as it offers an optional wet bath that includes a shower/toilet combo.

• Offers a large 7 person sleeping capacity with multiple sleeping locations including two large fold-out bunk ends, a large convertible dinette booth, and a gaucho bed.  
• Has a spacious dinette booth that offers plenty of seating for 4 or more. 
• Equipped with a large 11-foot awning that provides plenty of shade and space for the whole family to hang out during the day.
• An optional wet bath provides more options and possibilities for a family of 4 while camping.  

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Freedom 2318G, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

5. Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST

• Cost :  $14,500
• Sleeping Capacity :  4
• Closed Length :  19 Feet 2 Inches
• Open Length :  19 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight :  2,120 Pounds

Hard-sided pop-up campers are a great alternative to the more common tent-style pop-up camper.

As they offer much better sound deadening as well as better insulation, which really comes in handy while camping during cold and hot weather.

But one of the drawbacks to hard-sided pop-up campers is they tend to be more expensive compared to the more common tent-style pop-up campers.  

But there are two hard-sided pop-up campers that are an exception to this rule.

As both the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST and the sister model Forest River Rockwood A122S are priced affordably despite their hard-side construction.  

And the great thing is that both the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST and the Forest River Rockwood A122S can comfortably fit a family of 4.  

Also, if your thinking that hard-sided pop-up campers might be harder to set up compared to tent-style pop-up campers, not to worry.

Because as you can see from the below YouTub video, it’s super easy to set up the Forest River Flagstaff T12RBSSE.

• Offers a 4 person sleeping capacity, thanks to the large rear flip-up bed and convertible dinette booth.
• Has a large front dinette booth that can easily fit 4 people at a time.
• Equipped with a large front storage locker that can store a ton of camping gear and equipment.
• Has a nice little kitchenette for prepping and cooking family meals while at the campsite.  

For more info on the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RBST, be sure to check out Forest River’s website by clicking here . 

6. TAXA Outdoors Tiger Moth

• Cost :  $20,000
• Sleeping Capacity :  4 (with Optional Pop-Up Tent)
• Closed Length :  12 Feet 10 Inches
• Open Length :  12 Feet 10 Inches
• Dry Weight :  1,310 Pounds

If your a family that likes to get off the beaten path then you definitely need to check out the TAXA Outdoors Tiger Moth.

As this adventure pop-up camper is by far the most well-equipped pop-up camper on this list for off-roading and boondocking.

As the TAXA Outdoors Tiger Moth offers numerous features that allow you to go further off the beaten path and for longer than almost any other pop-up camper.

Thanks to off-road and dry camping features such as 15-inch ground clearance, torsion axle suspension, powder-coated gravel guard, full slide-out outdoor kitchen, built-in off-grid electrical system, external water system, and pre-wired solar inlet.

• Can sleep up to 4 campers when optioned with the available roof-top tent.
• The full-featured slide-out outdoor kitchen makes cooking larger meals while at the campsite a breeze.
• The rear 6-foot awning provides additional covered space for a family to hang out during the day.
• Offers lots of storage space for camping gear, thanks to the large front cargo deck and the rooftop cargo deck.  

For more information on the TAXA Outdoors Tiger Moth and to learn how to order one, check out the TAXA Outdoors website by clicking here . 

7. Coachmen Clipper Classic 1285SST

• Cost :  $23,000
• Closed Length :  19 Feet
• Open Length :  23 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight :  2,840 Pounds
• Bathroom :  Wet Bath

The Coachmen Clipper Classic 1285SST is the first pop-up camper on this list that can be considered a luxury pop-up camper , due to all the high-end features this pop-up camper offers.

In addition, this is the first pop-up camper on this list that comes with a standard wet bath that includes both a modular cassette Potti and a shower.

Making this pop-up camper from Coachmen completely self-contained, which allows you to dry camp and boondock with this camper.  

• Has a very large 7-person sleeping capacity, thanks to its multiple sleeping locations including a queen-size fold-out bunk, a king-size fold-out bunk, a convertible dinette booth, and a gaucho coach. 
• Offers a nice open floorplan, due in large part to its slide-out dinette booth, which provides plenty of room to walk around inside the camper.  
• Standard wet bath provides a lot more options for families while dry camping and boondocking.  
• Equipped with a large exterior storage locker for all your storage needs.

For more information on the Coachmen Clipper Classic 1285SST, check out Coachmen’s website by clicking here .

8. Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC

• Cost :  $25,000
• Closed Length :  21 Feet 6 Inches
• Open Length :  27 Feet 9 Inches
• Dry Weight :  3,721 Pounds

If you’re looking for the ultimate in a tent-style pop-up camper then you need to look no further than Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC.

As this high-end luxury pop-up camper has pretty much every feature you could want in a pop-up camper including a 20,000 BTU furnace, heated mattresses on the bunk ends, a power roof lift, LED lighting throughout, Bluetooth stereo with outside speakers, and a 13-foot awning with LED lighting.

In addition, this camper has one of the nicest kitchenettes I’ve ever seen on a pop-up camper, as it has loads of counter space, a large double kitchen sink, 3-way fridge, propane stove/oven combo, a microwave, and even a water filtration system.  

And as you would expect, this pop-up camper from Forest River is also completely self-contained, as it has a large freshwater tank, dual propane tanks, a double battery box with a 35 Amp converter, and a two-piece wet bath with a shower and cassette toilet. 

• Offers lots of sleeping capacity, as this pop-up camper can sleep up to 7 people at a time. 
• Has a large dinette booth slide-out that helps to open up the interior of the camper and provides additional floor space.
• Equipped with a well-appointed kitchenette with lots of counter space that makes larger meal prep and cooking a breeze.
• Has a standard two-piece wet bath, which provides more options for families looking to dry camp and boondock away from campgrounds.  
• Offers plenty of seating throughout the camper, thanks to the large u-shaped dinette booth and couch, so everyone has plenty of room to spread out on rainy days inside the camper.
• A large 13-foot awning provides a large outdoor covered area for multiple people to hang out comfortably outside the camper. 

For more info on the Forest River Flagstaff High Wall HW29SC, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

9. Camp 365 Camper

• Cost :  $26,000
• Closed Length :  15 Feet 6 Inches
• Open Length :  15 Feet 6 Inches
• Dry Weight :  1,485 Pounds

The most unique pop-up camper on this list by far is the Camp 365 Camper , which opens out on the sides instead of front and back.

Which helps to create a very streamlined pop-up camper while in tow mode, helping to cut down on wind resistance and making it easier to tow.

But it’s not just its distinctive design that makes this camper so great, as it also has several unique features that you usually don’t find on a standard pop-up camper .

Including a 7 -foot 6-inch interior height that spans almost the entire width of the camper helping to give it a very open feel, hard wall composite insulation for better R-value, 5 hard-sided glass windows with screens, locking hard wall door, and a modular interior design that allows you to set up the inside of the camper to fit your particular needs and wants.  

• Provides enough space for up to 6 people to sleep inside.
• A flexible modular floorplan allows the interior of the camper to be set up for each individual family’s needs.
• Has a large open interior making it easy to move around inside the pop-up camper.
• Equipped with dual awnings on either side of the camper, which provides plenty of covered space for the whole family to hang out under during the day.

For more information on the Camp 365 Camper and to find out how to order one, make sure you check out Camp 365’s website by clicking here . 

10. Aliner Expedition

• Cost :  $28,000
• Closed Length :  18 Feet
• Open Length :  18 Feet
• Dry Weight :  1,850 Pounds
• Bathroom :  Swivel Cassette Toilet

The Aliner Expedition is the flagship model of the Aliner hard-sided lineup and is one of the most feature-rich and luxurious hard-sided pop-up campers available today.

As this hard-sided pop-up camper from Aliner offers numerous features to make your next camping trip more comfortable as well as enjoyable including a command A/C heat pump, full kitchenette with microwave, 11-gallon freshwater tank, outdoor shower, and a cassette toilet.  

In addition, there are two versions of this pop-up camper including a sofa bed and a permanent bed version but regardless of which one you choose, they both can sleep 4 at a time.

Making the Aliner Expedition a great pop-up camper for a family of 4.  

For a list of other hard-sided pop-up campers great for winter camping, check out our article “ The 8 Best Pop Up Campers for Winter Camping “.

Why It’s Great for A Family of 4

• Offers a 4 person sleeping capacity, thanks to the sofa bed and convertible dinette booth.
• Has a well-equipped kitchenette to make larger meal prep and cooking at the campsite easy. 
• Equipped with a cassette toilet and outdoor shower attached to an 11-gallon freshwater tank to provide more options for families while dry camping or boondocking.
• A large dinette booth at the front of the camper provides more than enough room for the whole family to sit around the table for mealtime. 

For more info on the Aliner Expedition, be sure to check out Aliner’s website by clicking here .  

Want to know what the 10 cheapest pop-up campers are?  If so check out our article “ The 10 Cheapest Pop Up Campers You Can Buy “.

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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Pop up Campers

Last updated on: July 1, 2022

The Best 9 Small and Lightweight Pop Up Campers (With Pricing, Pictures, Floor Plans, etc)

by Chris Coleman

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We all need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day grind every once in a while. And while roughing it in a tent can be part of the adventure, some of us (me included) prefer to have a few creature comforts on hand.

Recreation vehicles are a great way of finding this balance. RVs cover a huge expanse of options, from luxury offerings like the Bowlus Terra Firma , to travel trailers, and even converted transport vans. But, these can often cost more than what many of us are willing or able to spend. 

That’s where pop up campers come in! They offer a bunch of the same home comforts as the higher-end options at a much lower price. And it’s not just the dollar amount that has these at the top of my personal RV list! 

Pop-ups are usually lighter and smaller than many of the other trailer options (as little as 800ish pounds all the way up to 3,500 pounds for large pop-up campers, with an average weight of around 1700 pounds. The average length of a camper is anywhere between 8 and 16 feet, with that size usually doubling once folded out) meaning they can be hauled by a larger range of vehicles and are much easier to maneuver.

But what exactly is a pop up camper you ask?

Are there any obvious downsides to a pop up camper when compared to other rv options, how much weight can your vehicle tow, how many people does it comfortably sleep, how much storage space does the camper offer, what features and amenities are important to you, what to inspect on a pop up camper before you buy, the wrap up.

To put in the most simple terms, a pop up camper is a compact towable living area that packs down to about half their usable size for ease of transport and usually comes with expandable hard or canvas walls. 

They can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 8 people and usually cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on which size you decide on.

Sure, with the cost being much lower you cannot reasonably expect to have all the bells and whistles of higher-priced recreational vehicles.

Usually, the space will be tighter with fewer rooms, less privacy, and less storage space. Many do not come with an inbuilt toilet or shower (although you can of course get a pop up with bathroom facilities). Some do not come with cooling or heating, they are usually less insulated from the weather, and there is the set up and pack away time to take into consideration

But, if you are a 3 seasons adventurer looking for a few more of the home conveniences when exploring the great outdoors then a pop up camper is a great option.

So, follow me as I dive deep and take a look at all the best offerings in the pop up camper world!

SylvanSport GO

The SylvanSport GO is without a doubt one of my favorite small pop up campers. Perfect for three-season camping (although not suitable for cold winter trips), this brilliantly designed camping trailer can carry a bunch of loot, can go off-road when needed, and is priced to please!

• Price: Starting RRP of $9,995
• Length: 140 in / 356 cm
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 1650 lbs / 748 kg
• Weight of camper: 840 lbs / 381 kg
• Ground Clearance: 13 in / 33 cm
• Equipment Rack Weight Rating: 165 lbs / 75 kg
• Gear Deck Weight Rating: 810 lbs / 367 kg 
• Storage Box Volume: 9 cu ft | .25 cu m
• Tent Material: 210 denier ripstop polyester (body), 210 denier oxford nylon (floor)
• Stabilizers: 4 corner-mounted stabilizing jacks
• Bathroom: NA
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 5
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: NA
• Gray Water Tank Capacity: NA
• Black Water Tank Capacity: NA
• BTU per hour furnace: NA
• RVInsider average reviews: No reviews

The SylvanSport GO may be missing some of the options that come with a travel trailer or motorhome (water system, bathroom) but don’t write it off your list just yet!

The entire tent unit packs away into the super sleek roof compartment , and it takes less than 10 minutes to transform the trailer into a fully functional living space for up to 5 people (although that may be a bit of a squeeze. This unit is better suited for 2 to 4 people in my opinion)

This versatile, comfortable, and rugged pop-up camper comes with self-inflating mattresses that are actually surprisingly comfy, a large storage box, enough carry space for all your adventure needs, a heavy-duty long-lasting tent made from 220-denier ripstop nylon fabric,(3x heavier duty than traditional family tents), a diamond plate reinforced deck, and some of the best build quality i have seen in this category. 

Head over to https://sylvansport.com/go-camping-trailer/ to see all the options available! 

Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side Pop Up Campers

Next up we have the fantastic Flagstaff Hard Side Pop Up Campers from Forest River campers. With 7 floor plans to choose from there’s an option for almost everyone, but today I’m going to focus on the T21TBHWOR, one of the bigger options available.

• Price: Starting RRP of $22,995.00
• Length: 21′ 2″
• Height: 5′ 1″ (closed)
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 1208 lb.
• Weight of camper: 2014 lb.
• Stabilizers: 4 E-Z Crank-Down Stabilizer Jacks w/ Sand Pads
• Fridge: Yes
• Cook top: 3 Burner with oven
• BTU per hour furnace: 10,000
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: Under Floor 20 Gallon Fresh Water Tank
• RVInsider average reviews: 3.9 out of 5

These hard-sided, A-frame roofed campers offer the best of both worlds – easy and lightweight traveling with the convenience of a tent camper, but also featuring solid walls and roof. 

Some of the great features included are a 10000 BTU BTU Cool Cat heat pump which doubles as both an A/C and space heater, mattress heaters, full outdoor stereo system, a water filter system, an LTE WiFi booster for those who need to work on the go, and the ProRac permanent crossbars to carry anything from kayaks to bikes.

There’s also a full kitchenette built into every Flagstaff which utilizes a 3 burner stovetop and oven, a fridge big enough for a few days worth of fresh produce, and a decently sized sink. This comes with all Flagstaffs, no matter which floor plan you choose.

The clean and simple design hides top tier engineering. This camper is built to last, with high grade materials used throughout the build, and a super generous 5 year warranty.

Head over to https://forestriverinc.com/rvs/camping-trailers/flagstaff-hard-side-pop-up-campers to see all the options available.

TrailManor 2518 Series

TrailManor have been making some of the best RVs for decades, but the all new TrailManor 2518 Series really takes the cake. This model has quickly become one of the company’s best sellers, and there’s a few obvious reasons why people seem to love this pop up so much.

• Length: 21’6″
• Height: 118″ open, 82″ closed
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 720 lbs
• Weight of camper: 2580 lbs
• Stabilizers: 4 Stabilizer Jacks
• Bathroom: Dry bath with cassette toilet and shower
• Fridge: 3-way 3 cu. ft. refrigerator
• Cook top: 2 Burner with oven
• BTU per hour furnace: Suburban 20,000 BTU furnace
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 20 Gallon Fresh Water Tank
• Gray Water Tank Capacity: 30 Gallon Grey Water Tank
• RVInsider average reviews: 4.4 out of 5

The 4.4 out of 5 star rating should tell you everything you need to know about this awesome unit, but let me elaborate a little further.

Small enough (when packed down) to fit into any regular garage and, even though this unfolds to be similar in size to many large travel trailers, it can be towed by a much wider range of vehicles. Towing is virtually effortless, with only a single extra gallon of gas on average per 100 miles being used when clipped on. 

The list of features is almost never ending with highlights like a 12 volt electrical system  with a 55-amp power converter and battery charger, rubber torsion axles with independent suspension,

“Krystal Kote” exterior cladding, aluminum alloy wheels, smoke detector, CO & LP gas detector, power front slide out to name a few. Check out https://trailmanor.com/2518series/# for the full list!

Aliner LXE Series

The Aliner LXE series is one of the highest rated pop up campers currently available to the North American market. Since the early 1970’s, Aliner has consistently produced some of the finest camper units, and they have only strengthened that reputation with the addition of this one!

• Price: Starting RRP of $35,590
• Length: 15’
• Height: 57″ closed
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 3000 lbs
• Weight of camper: 1795 lbs
• Bathroom: Cassette toilet and shower
• Cook top: 2 Burner with microwave oven
• BTU per hour furnace: 20,000 BTU furnace
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 11 Gallon Fresh Water Tank

Matching the TrailManor 2518 Series 4.4 out of 5 star rating on RVinsider.com is a great omen , and I can see why the masses have flocked to this one!

A few things that stand out here are the 3000 lb GVWR, 10 inch electric brake system, the performax 500 premium marine grade flooring,azdel lightweight, thermoplastic composite interior wall and ceiling panels, anodized aluminum extrusion, e-coated frame with powder coating on the front tongue and bumper, full kitchenette, and one of the most comfortable sofa beds i have ever had the pleasure of napping in. There is also a water heater, a command air conditioning heat pump, heaps of headroom, multiple interior 12 volt electrical outlets and one for outdoor use.

Sure, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but there the entire Aliner range is built to the highest standard. If you want more info on this one, or any others from the full range head over to https://aliner.com/ .

Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS

Is the Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS the most stylish pop up camper? No, not in my view and probably not yours either (unless you are a fan of hospitals maybe). 

But you know what it IS? One of the most functional units available right now, and it comes at an awesome price! 

• Price: Starting RRP of $13,500
• Length: 17 Feet 11 Inches open,  12 Feet 11 Inches closed
• Height: 4 Feet 8 in closed
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 2,897 lb.
• Weight of camper: 1,642 lb.
• Stabilizers: 4 Heavy Duty Scissor Style Jacks
• Fridge:120 Watt 12V Refrigerator/Freezer Cooler
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 16 Gallon Fresh Water Tank

Again we see a score of 4.4 out of 5 stars, keeping in line with the last 2 options – but at a much reduced price! Starting at just  $13,500 the Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS is one of the most budget friendly pop ups currently being sold!

One of the ways Coachmen has saved money is by eliminating a bathroom setup, but I do not actually hate this design decision. Sure, it’s nice to have a hot shower every now and then, but this also adds a bunch of space for other options.  

If you take a quick look at the floor plan you’ll see the 2 opposing gaucho benches which take the place of a more conventional dinette. I love this for 2 reasons – first it offers more versatility when hanging out inside the camper, and offers more sleeping space.

If you would like to learn more about the Coachmen Clipper LS 806XLS make sure to head over to https://coachmenrv.com/camping-trailers/clipper/806XLS/3870 !

Turtleback Trailers Getaway

https://www.youtube.com/c/TurtlebackTrailers

On the hunt for a pop up camper that can handle all rough and tumble of 4WDing, and offer some creature comforts even in the most remote locations? 

Well then, say hello to the Turtleback Trailers Getaway. Although you may have not heard of this awesome little company, they have been making some major waves in the industry for over a decade now. 

• Price: Starting RRP of $18,500
• Weight Rating (GVWR): 1160 lb.
• Weight of camper:  840 lb.
• Stabilizers: NA
• Sink: Deep Well Sink
• Cook top: partner Steel 2 Burner Stove
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 21 Gallon Fresh Water Tank
• Storage Capacity: 50.25 cubic ft.
• Tires and Wheels: 16″ Steel Wheels, 265/75-R16 BFG KO2 Tires
• RVInsider average reviews: NA

Fully designed, tested, and constructed in the good old U.S.A in their 10,000-square-foot facility just outside Phoenix, Arizona, every single Turtleback Trailer has to go through a rigorous testing regime before it’s marked as sale-ready. 

Although lacking an RVinsider.com rating, a quick google search shows just how popular these campers have quickly become. 

Built on a proven chassis, with more storage space than many units double the size, and easy to tow and maneuver on and off road there really aren’t many competing options that can offer the same list of features or ease of navigation. 

Click right here https://turtlebacktrailers.com/explore-the-getaway-trailer-built-by-turtleback-trailers/ to see all the options available right now!

Jay Sport Camping Trailer by Jayco

Available in 4 floor plans ranging in length from 11 foot 7 in all the way up to 21 foot 6 in, the Jay Sport Camping Trailer by Jayco has all the bases covered. Jayco has a rich history of targeting the lower end of the price scale for pop-up trailers, and the Jay Sport is no exception to the rule.

The Jay Sport by Jayco are some of the most economical options available right now and they come packed with fantastic features with a wide range of options.

• Price: Starting RRP of $17,046
• Length:18′ 7″ open / 4.92 ft. closed
• Width: 85 in
• Weight Rating (GVWR):  3375 lbs / 1530.9 kgs
• Weight of camper:  2385 lbs / 1081.8 kgs
• Stabilizers: 4 Stabilizer jacks with sand pads
• Fridge: 2 cu. ft., 3 way gas/electric refrigerator (110V/12V/propane)
• Sink: Acrylic sink and faucet
• Cook top: 2 Burner Stove
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 28 Gallon Fresh Water Tank
• Tires and Wheels: 14-inch C-range tires (12SC)
• RVInsider average reviews: 2.9

The heavy-duty, rust-resistant chassis construction is combined with an integrated A-frame by Norco® and a one-piece wooden floor deck wrapped with Poly Flex™ underbelly material plus the scratch-proof embossed-aluminum exterior finish. This combination has been proven time and again to last through even the toughest weather conditions, even with minimal after care. 

I really love the layout of this camper. There’s just so much room compared to some of the other options, and even though the fridge is a little smaller than I would like there’s still enough room for more than a day’s worth of food.

The Rvinsider.com score of 2.9 really surprises me. After browsing the comments I can see that there are a few complaints about the main door becoming jammed or not fitting well in the first place, but I did not find this to be an issue with the camper I tested. 

Overall, the Jay Sport Camper Trailer by Jayco was a pleasure to use and (in my opinion) one of the best options at this price point! click here to see all the options available – https://www.jayco.com/rvs/camping-trailers/2019-jay-sport/  

Cricket by Taxa Outdoors

Cricket by Taxa Outdoors may not look like your everyday pop up camper, but don’t let that put you off just yet.  This lightweight and rugged towable is the perfect blend of both civilized design and form that’s small enough to be pulled by many four-cylinder engine vehicles, but with still enough sleeping room for a full 4 person family.

• Price: Starting RRP of $38,000
• Length: 15 ft
• Width: 9 ft
• Weight Rating (GVWR):  2,700 lbs
• Weight of camper: 1,753 lbs
• Bathroom: Portable Toilet and Exterior Hot & Cold Shower
• Fridge: Large Cooler
• Sink: Sink with Hinged Lid
• BTU per hour furnace: Truma® Combi Eco Furnace & Water Heater System
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity: 15 gallon Fresh Water Tank
• Grey Water Tank Capacity: 16 gallon Grey Water Tank
• Liquid Propane (2x 20lb) Tanks with Cover

The Cricket by Taxa offers a great blend of modern comforts with a stripped-down and functional design. Inspired by NASA space crafts, this all-new pop up camper has ingenious features hidden throughout.

There are multiple USB outlets, a full-sized bed that hides over 20 cubic feet of storage, non-slip seamless nickel patterned flooring, roof racks for rack options, a 12v roof exhaust fan, Kynar-painted aluminum composite panels, recycled ripstop polyester tent side with multiple mesh windows, a laser-cut high tension aluminum frame, torsion axle suspension with electric brakes plus so much more.

There are a whole heap of financing options available, so head on over to https://taxaoutdoors.com/habitats/cricket/ to grab all the info!

OP4 by Opus Camper Trailers

Last on today’s rundown is the awesome OP4 by OPUS Camper Trailers. These unique campers offer complete freedom, with huge offroad potential.

The OP4 took home multiple awards in the past 24 months, and the all new and updated 2022 version has some brand spanking new features that only add to the overall brilliance of this already great camping pop up trailer.

• Price: Starting RRP of $25,001
• Length: 18’4″
• Width: 6’10”
• Weight Rating (GVWR):  3500lbs
• Weight of camper: 1,655 lbs
• Fridge: OPUS Camper 50 QT 12V Fridge (Optional Extra)
• Cook top: 4 Burner Stove
• BTU per hour furnace: Dometic Coolcat AC & Heat Pump 10,000BTU
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4r
• Tires and Wheels: 2x 265/75/RR15 Mud Tires + 1x Spare

Combining the best in state of the art tech with a comfort first design and tying in off road capabilities, the OPUS OP4 can get you places you didn’t think possible (at least while towing a pop up camper), and keep you out there in style and comfort for long periods.4

Sick of long setup and pack-down procedures?

Well then, say hello to OPUS’s air beam technology. This futuristic feature automatically configures your camper canopy and annex at the push of a button, with the full setup taking less than 2 minutes.

Made from high-grade, thick 340g Polycotton, the OPUS OP4 exterior shell provides top-shelf defense and shielding from the elements, including a fully water-resistant and UV-protected tropical roof. 

How about the off-road capabilities?

I’m glad you asked! This is where the OP4 really shines. Featuring highly durable suspension, high strength coil springs, dual shock absorbers, off-road tires, and a fully galvanized chassis –  this unit shines in the mud and dirt.

So, what are you waiting for? Click on the link to see all the options available today – https://www.opuscamper.us/op4-features/  

What To Look For When Buying A New or Used Pop Up Camper

There are a whole range of factors that you should take into consideration when deciding on which pop up camper will best suit you and your family’s needs. Let’s quickly run through them and go over the basics.

This is the very first question you should ask yourself. There’s no use buying a beautiful new pop up that can accommodate everyone in your family, only to find that it’s destined to become a driveway ornament until you also buy a new car!

Most pop up campers weigh in at anywhere between 1,000 to 3,000 lbs, and that’s not including any of the things you may want to stow away inside for a trip.

A good rule of thumb is to add 500 or so pounds for your extra gear, and another 500 pounds on top just to be on the safe side. NEVER EXCEED YOUR VEHICLE’S TOWING CAPACITY.

I have a pretty small family (just me, my wife, and our 4-year-old) so a camper that sleeps 2 to 3 is usually fine for us, for now at least. 

But, say you have more than a couple of little ones? What are you supposed to do then? 

I would suggest bringing along a few tents for the older kids to sleep in, which is exactly what my friend with a large family does. 

The kids love it, and it gives the whole family a bit of much-needed privacy.

Unfortunately, pop ups do not usually offer as much storage space as other RV options. These days it seems that manufacturers are taking notice of this and are trying to come up with new ways of finding extra hiding spots, but in general you should keep in mind that storage space might be at a premium.

Do you need an AC? Or maybe you live in a colder climate, in which case a heater may be more important? 

How about the kitchen size? 

Do you need a bathroom? Is hot water important to you, or can you make do with cold showers for a couple of days?

These are all important questions that need to be answered before you get close to buying a pop up camper, or and camper in that case.

This is particularly important if you plan on buying a used camper, but it is still something you should do with brand new units. 

But, what exactly should you be looking over?

• Check the tires. Make sure they have zero cracking, enough tread, and look in good general shape. This video will help you if you are unsure of what to check https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa32aqkOzgc
• Check the wheel bearings have been repacked – watch this quick explainer video if you haven’t done this before https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbsUTESwOMY  
• Check the chassis and axle for any bending or rust issues. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDsSIGOAQ28
• Make sure the pop up lift system is in full working order.
• Check for any mold or mildew around the entire cab.
• Make sure the appliances are in full working order. This means checking the electrical and plumbing systems thoroughly.
• Make certain the electric brakes are in full working order. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6SegtYgXs4  

Ok, so there you have it. My complete and comprehensive rundown of all the best pop up campers currently available. Is there one that caught your eye?

This is usually where I would give my recommendation on the best reviewed camper, but geez this is a hard one! Every single listed camper is great in its own right, and it really depends on what type of camping you are looking to do.

But, for me anyway, the standout is the OP4 by Opus Camper Trailers. Go anywhere, set up quickly, sleep comfortably, and with a decent kitchen set up. Pretty hard to beat if you’re asking me! Head over here to grab one today – https://www.opuscamper.us/op4-features/  

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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5 Fantastic Hard Side Pop Up Campers You’ll Instantly Love

By Kelly Beasley

Hard sided pop up campers are like a transformer travel trailer.

They collapse for ease of travel and storage, then they pop up and can look just like a regular travel trailer when open.

Aliner hard-sided A-frame pop-up. 

They are different from 'regular' pop up campers in that they have an all hard-sided exterior, whereas 'regular' ones have soft sides, usually made out of canvas.

Listed below are five hard-sided pop-up campers we think are great choices.

What Is A Hard Sided Pop Up Trailer?

A hardwall popup camper is a crossover between a regular travel trailer  and a popup trailer with canvas walls.

The hard side popup camper has no canvas.

Instead, all walls and windows consist of hard materials, just like a regular travel trailer.

The three most significant differences between a hard-sided and a soft-sided pop-up are:

• Safety- Some campgrounds won't allow you to stay if you have a soft-sided camper because bears can easily get inside.
• Temperature Control-  With a soft-sided camper, you cannot control the interior temperature as well as you can with a hard-sided camper. So if you're looking for comfort with better insulation, go with a hard sided pop-up camper.
• Privacy-  With a hard-sided camper, you'll have pretty decent privacy. If you have the canvas, then noises from outside aren't blocked at all. Also, everything you do and say in a tent camper might be heard by anyone outside your campsite.

These are good to keep in mind when deciding between the two trailer types.

Here are our 5 picks for a great hard-side pop up camper:

1. Aliner Family

Length: 18 feet

Dry Weight: Just under 2,000 pounds

Road/Storage Height: 4 feet 7 inches

We just love the layout of the  Aliner family  of hardside folding campers and the fact that you can easily and comfortably sleep four adults.

It's fully equipped, featuring a cassette toilet, dinette, sofa, water pump, furnace, and water heater.

A Fantastic vent and lots of windows keep you cool in the summer.

It does have decent storage, and the inside is about eight feet high, so tall persons don't have to crouch.

Be aware that the hard-sided dormers (window areas) are an option.

This means if you are looking at used models, they may have soft sides (canvas).

It's a 30-amp RV with an outside shower, and the kitchen area is outside (pull-out) as well.

It holds a 12-volt cooler style refrigerator , stove, countertop space, and storage underneath for your kitchen accessories.

The outdoor kitchen keeps cooking odors out of the living space, and it's nice to have outside to make it more of a camping experience.

Check out the  Aliner website .

2. Antishanty AS1 Models

Length: 17 feet 3 inches with tongue, 14 feet 5 inches box only

Dry Weight: 2,000 pounds or less

Road/Storage Height: 12 feet

The Antishanty AS1 is a tall A-frame hard-sided pop-up trailer that doubles as a toy hauler.

Additionally, we love it because it can easily sleep four adults as it houses TWO queen-sized mattresses !

Read that again- not a double bed or two, it has two full-sized queens.

You don't usually find that in a pop-up nor in an A frame trailer .

This trailer is taller than most when in tow or storage mode. It is also much taller inside than any other at 9 feet 6 inches at the peak.

Go with their base model if you're looking for a shell with beds so you can bring all your gear.

The Plus, Pro, and Limited add more and more amenities, including extra windows, lithium battery power, 2-burner glass cooktop, lights, USB ports, and more, depending on which model you get.

None of the trailers have an indoor shower (they do have an external shower), but the upgraded versions offer a cassette toilet .

But inside, there is no dedicated bathroom. It does feature a 'garage' in front for extra gear.

All feature axle-less suspension, an aluminum exo-endo skeleton, and a removable tongue.

Removing the tongue makes the kit shorter for storage, and nobody can steal it while you're boondocking.

This is a more 'industrial' style hard-sided pop-up made for adventuring, durability, and flexibility. It is also the tallest when in towing/living mode.

Ranging from $37,900 to $73,900.

Check out the Antishanty website .

3. Chalet XL Series

Length: 18 feet 7 inches

Dry Weight: 1995 - 2165 pounds

Road/Storage Height: 65 - 73 inches

Here's another pop-up and hardside pop up camper that we like. The Chalet XL series is the largest in Chalet fleet, and the series offers three floorplans:  The XL 1920, XL 1930, and the XL 1935.

They come with all the usual necessities, such as a refrigerator, cooktop, furnace, propane tanks, and a roof vent.

Options include a cassette toilet with a full enclosure, a wet bath package, a solar package, outdoor speakers, and an air conditioner.

The XL series comes with a power lift system. This means there's no physical effort for you to raise the roof.

There's lots of floor space in this line, and you can even have RV bunk bed mattresses if you get the XL 1920.

Check out the Chalet website .

Note: It appears that Chalet is out of business, so you will only be able to find used versions of this recreational vehicle.

4. TrailManor Series

Length (closed): 18 - 24 feet

Dry Weight: 2580 - 3200 pounds

Road/Storage Height: 79 - 82 inches

TrailManor makes what is arguably the most unique hardside popup camper on this list and in existence.

It's not an A-frame camper like most are, and it looks like a traditional camper when open.

The series model numbers are:

Note that the first two numbers are the open length and the last two are the closed length (in feet).

The product has two sections that pop up when opened, and they form the upper walls.

Watch the video below to see what we mean, as it's very difficult to explain how it opens and closes.

This trailer gives you the most interior space of them all. The different models range from 18 to 24 feet long when closed, and it gets about seven longer when opened.

You can store these in a garage and tow them with most SUVs.

Each model is fully equipped with a full kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living area containing the usual amenities for comfort, such as an 12-volt power in the living area, AC, roof vent fan, and furnace.

The fridge is relatively small as it must be only as high as the lower section.

Check out the TrailManor website .

5. Forest River Rockwood A122S

Length: 19 feet 2 inches

Dry Weight: 2,120 pounds

Road/Storage Height: 5 feet 1 inches

The Forest River Rockwook A122S (S stands for storage) is the only hard-side RV that Forest River currently makes.

It offers a huge storage bin all the way across the front.

Along with that, you'll find everything else you need in this lightweight hardsided popup.

It has a sink, RV electric water pump , fridge, burner stove, and microwave.

It also comes with soft shelving (portable), an outside griddle, ceiling lights, a power converter, and a water heater.

Options on this hard pop-up camper include a power jack and solar power .

Check out the Forest River website .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there hard sided pop up campers.

Yes, all campers on this list are considered to be a hard wall pop up camper.

Are Hard Side Pop Up Campers Any Good?

Sure! A hard side pop up trailer is as good as any other type of trailer and has the added benefit of not having soft sides.

Some campgrounds and parks do not allow soft-sided campers due to bear activity in the area.

A pop up hard side camper is much easier to control the temperature inside and is also more private as far as sound transmission than a soft sided camper.

Is A Hard Side Pop Up Camper Hard To Set Up?

A hard shell camper is easy to set up once you know how. It might take a little more time to set up than a regular RV, but a solid wall pop-up camper is generally easy to set up.

Do Hard Side Pop Up Campers Leak?

A hard sided tent trailer can leak, just like any other type of RV can. It's part of the nature of the beast. They have seams that can leak. They also have places that accessories (like a solar panel) and appliances are attached on the outside using screws that can allow for water intrusion.

It's a good idea to check those areas often for holes where water can get inside and reseal as necessary.

• Want to know how to equip a popup before heading out for your first camping trip? Check out our list of pop-up accessories to find out what you should get.

There you have it.

There aren't a ton of hard sided pop up camper manufacturers out there.

But we've listed the ones that do exist and that we like and feel are the best hard sided folding campers out there.

There are a few other pop up hard sided campers that are good but are no longer being manufactured such as the  Hi-Lo trailers . (They are looking to resume production.)

If you're looking for used, you can also search for one of those.

Otherwise, we hope you find and enjoy one of these on our list of hard shell pop up campers!

Author: Kelly Beasley

Kelly was a co-founder of CampAddict.com and ran the business until April of 2024 when she sold the business to Schwalm Inc. For over 7 years she fully immersed herself in the RV lifestyle, particularly enjoying boondocking. In December 2020, she transitioned into a #vanlife setup. Her goal was to empower others to embrace RVing confidently, equipped with the knowledge for unforgettable adventures. She believed RV knowledge enhanced that freedom and flexibility of the open road. 

Have you looked at the Kimberly Kampers as they are hard top caravans. They would be my pick.

They look great! Unfortunately they are Australian so aren’t available in the North American market where we are.

Trail Manor RV. I work for them as well as several other RV manufacturers representing their brands to dealerships across the United States.

If you go to Trail Manors website you can watch the set up video. About 2 minutes long.

In relation to affordability, you will not find more bang for your buck! Understand how they are built from the chassis up and the quality components used and you will have a hard time finding another rv even close to this price point.

I tow the Trail Manor 2720QB and love it. No buckling or swaying, great gas milage. Set up is a breeze.

I have a choice in what I want to take on the road from a teardrop, or an overland trailer, a standard size rv or the Trail Manor. My wife and I always take the Trail Manor, our preferred choice.

The company is now in the process of building a new factory to meet the increasing demand for Trail Manor. New options and models coming soon.

They truly are unique! You get the best of both worlds- pop-up benefits along with full-size trailer benefits. Glad you are able to take one out! Thank you for your input.

I have a trailmanor 3124kb and love it. Since production numbers are so low they keep value quite well and are a good RV too flip if you find a good deal. It’s ready to camp in ten minutes and is massive compared to all the other models.

I had a HiLo that I absolutely loved! Awesome to haul and 30 seconds to raise the top, plus having the wet bath! I wish someone would start them up again (investors!). Huge mistake selling mine ☹️! I would purchase again in a heartbeat! 💜💜💜

Hey Elizabeth!

Sorry to hear you regret selling yours! Hey, there are others on the market. Keep your eye out and get it again! YOLO. 💕

The prices are ridiculously high for these campers

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8 Best Pop Up Camper Trailers

Pop up campers, pop up trailers, pop up camping trailers, whatever you want to call them, they are simply awesome.  So small, they allow you to park and/or camp anywhere.  We are always amazed at the ingenuity of the pop-up camper manufacturers that pack so much good camping gear into such a small place.  These are the 8 best pop up camper trailers  on the market today.  

Click on the Quick Links below to jump right the pop-up camper trailer you’ve heard about or scroll down to see the best that the industry has to offer!

Quick Links

Sylvan Sport GO

Air OPUS OP4

• Forest River Rockwood ESP

Turtleback Trailers Expedition T3

Coachman Viking LS

Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast

Coachmen Clipper 12.0 TD XL

Black Series Dominator

Product Reviews

Best RV and Hiking Gear for 2021

RV Accessories and RV Gear

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy  here .

1. Sylvan Sport GO

This little guy is amazing!  You can store things (like motorcycles, bikes, camping gear, or whatever you can come up with, below the tent pod. You can even put stuff like kayaks, bicycles, and more on the equipment rack above the tent pod.  It’s a really cool design.  This is the hybrid of all the pop-up tent trailers.  The company Sylvan Sport also sells all sorts of camping equipment and an even larger camper.  You should check them out!

Quick Features

Length:  80″ Long by 116″ Wide

Dry Weight:  840 Pounds

Sleeps: 2 Adults – 2 Children

Slideouts: None, however, the roof pops up for more headspace and ventilation.

Click here to schedule an online demo! 

Light enough for almost any size vehicle to tow, this pop-up / travel trailer is perfect for almost anyone who loves the outdoors.  The only drawback we could find is there is no internal toilet, so you could always opt for a nice composting toilet .

2. Air OPUS OP4

Those Australians did it again!  They packed so much into this off-road pop-up camper trailer that you may never have to go home again.  It’s almost indescribable how cool this pop-up camper trailer is.  With the flip of a button, the entire pop-up literally pops up with the convenience of triple-reinforced air bladders.   Not only that, you can order a toilet, a slide-out kitchen, and so much more.  It’s a little pricey, but well worth it if you want to take your pop-up camper trailer off-road and get away from it all. 

Length: 5600 (L) x 2155mm (W) x 1635mm (H) (inc rack and spare)

Dry Weight:  1,370 kg (depending on what model you choose – 2 models to choose from)

Sleeps: Can sleep up to 10 people with inflated annex

Slideouts: No slideouts but it has two fold-outs and if you choose the air annex, you have an amazing amount of room.  Check out the video!! 

Click here to see the full specs!

Built for extreme off-road travel, this pop-up camper trailer has everything you will need and more.  With fixed double-beds, a seating area, a movable table, storage, portable toilet, fridge slide, and even a slide-out kitchen.  You have to order from Australia, so get on it.  

3. Forest River Rockwood ESP (Extreme Sports Package)

Forest River Rockwood ESP (Extreme Sports Package)  

This pop-up camping trailer is built for adventurous couples and families.  With 10 models to choose from, we are sure you can find the right pop up camper trailer for you.  These travel trailers also come in the soft wall or hard wall configurations. 

Length:  12’1″ to 30’8″ (depending on model selected)

Dry Weight:  1,722 lbs to 3,377 lbs (depending on model selected)

Sleeps: 2 to 4 Adults (depending on the model selected)

Slideouts: 1 Slideout (depending on the model selected)

BUILT FOR 21ST CENTURY CAMPING. The ESP package has interior features targeted for the modern, active lifestyle including a Digital Media Receiver with Bluetooth, MP3 player, USB and auxiliary ports, WiFi Ranger WiFi Booster, recharging station with (2) additional USB ports, LED interior lighting and more.

4. Turtleback Trailers Expedition T3

Another Australian innovation.  If you are into off-road trailers and have a fair amount of money, this pop-up camper trailer is for you!  Turtleback Trailers has a more affordable line, the Getaway Series at around $17,000 but since this is a review, we wanted to show you the absolute best the Turtleback Trailers have to offer.  

Length:  67” H x 74.25” W x 130” L  (depending on model selected)

Dry Weight:  1,850 lbs (depending on model selected)

Slideouts: No slideouts

Since this website is dedicated to adventure travel, we love this little pop-up camper trailer.  It is truly built to go off-road.  With Steel Frame construction, 3500lb Rubber Torsion Axles, Electric Brakes, Alloy Wheels & Off-Road Tires, 4 Rail Steel Roof Rack, 42 Gal Food Grade Water Tank, 12V On-Demand Water Pump, DSI 6 Gal High-Efficiency Water Heater, External Shower Storage, with a CNC Laser Cut & Bent Aluminum l 48” x 32” Nose Box, 45” Side Boxes (2), 55+ Cubic Feet Of Storage, Durable Baltic Birch Wood Cabinetry, Solid Maple Countertop, 2 Slide Out Kitchen Pantry Drawers, Huge Pot & Pan Box, Customizable Drawer Dividers, 2 Burner Partner Steel Stove & Cover, Deep Dometic Stainless Steel Sink, Hot & Cold Faucet, Brushed S/Steel Fold Down Tables (2) and 11lb Propane Tank.  It also comes with an optional Roof Top Tent, Awning, Fridge, and Rotopax.  

5. Coachman Viking LS

The Viking line of pop-up camper trailers has more than 16 different options.  We had to pick one, so here is the Coachman Viking LS.  This small little pop-up camper trailer is packed with goodies.  Great for a family for a week of camping or so compact and easy to setup, even a quick weekend camping getaway.  

Length:  16′ 10″‘ including tongue

Dry Weight:  1,080 lbs

Sleeps: 4 Adults

Slideouts: 2 slideouts that make into beds

These little pop-up camper trailer even come with an electric brakes, LED exterior lights, pre-braced for A/C, fresh water tank, 12 amp convertor, awning, 2 burner stove, 20,000 BTU furnace,3-Way Dometic Refrigerator 1.9 Cu. Ft. with screens and a lot more.  Check them out!

6. Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast

It seems like Forest Rivers is THE RV manufacturer with the most options available.  This pop-up camper trailer is just another option you can find from Forest River.  The model here (  28TSCSE  : Sports Enthusiast Package (SE) comes with an actual shower, toilet, fridge, sink, dinette, and two large beds.  

Length: 26′ 5″

Dry Weight:  1,844 lbs

Slideouts: 1 slideout, with two folding pop-outs.

Click here to see the full specs! 

The Flagstaff Sport Enthusiast Package comes with a variety of standard features including: AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth technology, a MP3 Player and USB auxiliary ports for streaming and recharging, LED lighting and a WiFi Ranger WiFi booster, Distinctive fender flairs and 15” Mud Rover Radial Tires with Aluminum Wheels provides 12” of ground clearance to go anywhere. Each SE is solar power ready, making it easy to get off the grid!  You really have to check these out.  They don’t have a video out for the SE package but check out the video below for the less extreme Flagstaff MAC.

7. Coachmen Clipper 12.0 TD XL

This is a hybrid between a standard small RV trailer and a pop-up camper trailer.  The Coachmen Clipper series of trailers have 16 options!  Choose from a standard pop-up trailer or the hybrid models.  Standard features include a lot of comfort features including a 5,000 BTU air conditioner and a 20,000 BTU furnace plus, unlike traditional teardrop models, you can stand upright and walk around in the living space. These models are lightweight, and easy to tow by most cars, crossovers, and small SUVs.

Length: Just over 16’9″

Dry Weight:  1,786 lbs

Sleeps: 3 Adults

Clipper tent-style, pop-up hybrids feel much bigger inside, with a rear entry for easy access. Unlatch, and the struts automatically lift the roof into position. Durable, lami-plast exterior walls and roof skin maintain structural integrity and can withstand the test of time.

8. Black Series Dominator

In case you can’t tell, I love Australians and their ingenuity.  The Dominator provides a spacious interior with a queen size sleeping area and seating for the whole family. The seating area also conveniently converts into a comfortable sleeping surface to provide a restful nights sleep for the whole family. Included LED lighting throughout allows the celebration to continue inside after the sun goes down. Plenty of mesh windows allow fresh air to flow throughout the tent, reassuring you of the beauty and purity of camping and overlanding.

Length: 17.38′

Dry Weight:  2,740 lbs

Sleeps: 2+ Adults

Slideouts: None

The Dominator provides a spacious interior with a queen size sleeping area and seating for the whole family. The seating area also conveniently converts into a comfortable sleeping surface to provide a restful night’s sleep for the whole family. Included LED lighting throughout allows the celebration to continue inside after the sun goes down. Plenty of mesh windows allow fresh air to flow throughout the tent, reassuring you of the beauty and purity of camping and overlanding.

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8 Best Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers in 2024 – Expert Pop Up Campers Guide

• Last Updated: May 27, 2024
• 17 minutes read

As an RV enthusiast who has hit the road in numerous models and makes, I’ve encountered the full spectrum of campers.

However, finding the best hard side pop up campers presented a unique challenge, marrying the comfort of a hard shell with the convenience of a pop-up.

This combination is ideal for those who love the adventure without compromising on security and ease of setup.

In my quest, I personally tested twelve renowned models to find those that stand out in terms of durability, design, and functionality.

The Aliner – Family Base Floorplan emerged as the top performer.

Its exceptional blend of spaciousness, robust construction, and family-friendly layout makes it a clear winner for anyone looking to invest in a hard-sided pop-up.

Based on my experience, the top pop-up campers are:

• Aliner – Family Base Floorplan : Best overall; family-oriented design with ample space
• Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S : Great for couples; cozy and compact
• Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO : Excellent storage solutions; ideal for organized travelers
• Aliner – Scout-Lite : Top pick for solo adventurers; lightweight and easy to hitch
• Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 : Luxurious option; equipped with high-end amenities
• Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW : Superior in versatility; features a hybrid dinette-slideout
• Aliner – Expedition : Favorite for extended trips; spacious with high capacity
• The Chalet LTW : Best for budget-conscious travelers; simple, efficient, and affordable

IN THIS ARTICLE

What Are Hard-Sided Pop-up Campers?

A Hard-sided popup camper travels down the road just like a traditional popup camper compacted into a streamlined trailer.

When you get to your campsite it expands up and out with movable hard-sided walls.

This provides you with better wind protection, warmth, and even more soundproofing than a traditional canvas popup camper. 

How Much Does A Hard-Sided Popup Camper Weigh? 

The average hard-sided popup camper weighs around 2,000-pounds, which makes them comfortably within the range of what most mid-size SUVs and powerful sedans can tow.

Though some are a little lighter, and a few are heavier. In general, the more features you add, the more the weight will drive up, with a complete bathroom and the water tanks that support it is the thing that drives up the weight the most. 

How Much Does A Hard-Sided Popup Camper Cost?

The average hard-sided popup camper costs between $12,000 to $20,000.

Though some stripped-down lightweight models can cost as little as $6,000, while some of them decked out luxury hard-sided popup campers can push over $25,000.

Working directly with a manufacturer or a certified dealership can give you access to customizable optional extras that let you develop a hard-sided popup camper to meet your needs at a price that fits smoothly into your budget. 

Do Hard-Sided Popup Campers Have Bathrooms?

Many hard-shell pop-up campers have a wet bath built into them or as an optional extra.

This is a combination shower and toilet built into a small compact corner or installed into a large interior cabinet.

Though this isn’t always the case, as some sacrifice any bathroom space to provide more kitchen or sleeping area. 

The 8 Best Hard-Sided Popup Campers In 2024

While choosing some of the best hard-sided popup campers we tried to keep a diligent eye out for material build quality as well as models that had friendly towing statistics.

We also kept a keen eye out for hard-sided popup campers that did a good job of addressing specific niche interests, such as families who love to boondock as well as families who love to stay close to the convenient resources of an RV campground. 

1. Aliner – Family Base Floorplan

• Length 18 ft. 
• A dry weight of 2,000 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,500 lbs.
• Fresh water storage tank capacity of 11 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people

Aliner is one of the hard-sided popup camper industry’s leaders with a lot of great models worth considering. This is often due to the easy way the middle of the roof pops up for quick setup.

Though as the name implies the 2021 Aliner – Family does an impressive job of meeting the needs of traveling parents with one to two children. It does this with a thoughtful floorplan that maximizes the number of people you can sleep, while still making room for a toilet and a sink.

This is rare for a hard-sided popup camper that has a dry weight under 2,000-pounds. It might just make the Aliner – Family Base one of the best hard-sided campers for a family that prioritizes lightweight towing and also wants a discrete interior toilet. 

One of the ways the Aliner – Family maximizes the interior living and sleeping space is by installing a pull-out exterior kitchen. It’s located in the front nose of the hard-sided popup camper and pulls out right in front of the camper pass-thru door.

It includes a DC-powered RV absorption refrigerator and a flush-mounted, two-burner propane stove. This also helps keep the heat of cooking a meal from warming up the compact interior of the hard-sided popup camper. 

Of course, the complaint here is that you have to cook your meals outside, which can be an issue if bad weather strikes at mealtime. Like a lot of hard-sided popup campers, there isn’t any sort of awning to protect you while you cook.

So, it’s wise to plan to include a heavy-duty pavilion tent or screen tent in your budget when you select the Aliner – Family as your hard-sided popup adventure camper. 

2. Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S

• Length 18.10 ft. 
• A dry weight of 2,120 lbs.
• The payload capacity of 1,164 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 284 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,795 lbs.
• Fresh water storage tank capacity of 20 gallons
• Sleeps up to 3 people
• 10,000 BTU air conditioner
• 10,000 BTU propane furnace
• 4.75-foot front cargo deck

One of the things that pops off the screen with the Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S is the front cargo deck to help bring bikes, dirt bikes, and other toys with you on your adventure.

Not to mention the roof rack that is sturdy enough to strap down a canoe or a pair of small kayaks. This makes it one of the best hard-sided popup campers for people who love to bring their outdoor equipment with them. It also spares you from having to strap these things to your SUV or other tow vehicles. 

One thing to keep in mind with all this equipment and storage space payload capacity is how it can affect the gross weight as well as the aerodynamics. If you load this hard-sided popup camper to the max, you are staring at a maximum GVWR of nearly 4,000-pounds, which might push what some mid-size SUVs can safely tow.

Though if you are frugal about the weight you pack into the Forest River RV Rockwood Hard Side Series A122S’s 2,120-pound dry weight, then it’s not too big of a worry. When you expand the Rockwood Hard Side A122S at camp, you get an impressive amount of interior living space.

This includes a swing galley and a microwave cabinet. There’s also a fair amount of interior storage space. This hard-sided popup camper also comes with a cool 10,000 BTU air conditioner as well as a 10,000 BTU propane furnace.

There’s even an exterior gas grill for times when you want to cook outside without heating up the interior. Just note that one of the tradeoffs for all this toy hauling and interior living space is that there is no formal bathroom or toilet.

So, you might want to plan a portable toilet to haul along on the front storage deck or plan to stay at RV parks and campgrounds that offer some sort of bathroom facility. 

3. Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO

• Length 17.5 ft. 
• Dry weight of 2,014 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,208 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 222 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,222 lbs.
• 10,000 BTU furnace

The Flagstaff is one of Forest River’s most successful platforms that you see showing up with popular features shared in many different models that bear the Flagstaff name.

So, it only makes sense that they would also bring their best to bear in the Forest River Flagstaff Hard Side T12RB DSO.

This A-frame popup camper is designed to sleep up to four people while also having the kind of thoughtful storage that lets a family bring all their essential items.

This includes a front exterior storage area that’s perfect for keeping dirty shoes and wet coats outside, without tracking inside. There’s also a large rear storage bay with an EZ reach access door. 

Like a lot of popular hard-sided popup campers, there is a tidy mid-ship galley and an exterior kitchen.

There’s even an interior RV refrigerator and an exterior gas griddle. Though the tradeoff for all these convenient appliances and storage space is the complete lack of any sort of bathroom. 

4. Aliner – Scout-Lite

• Length 13 ft. 
• Dry weight of 1,180 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,320 lbs.
• Hitch weight of 130 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,000 lbs.
• Sleeps up to 2 to 3 people

The Aliner – Scout-Lite is a compact lightweight hard-sided popup camper that is easy to tow with a mid-size SUV .

Depending on how much you pack into the 1,180-pound dry weight, you could conceivably tow this camper behind a small SUV or even a mid-size sedan with a towing package installed. 

The Aliner – Scout-Lite is geared for a couple, a single parent who loves to travel with their child, or perhaps a couple with an only child.

The rear bunk converts into a 40” X 76” bed that is tidy enough for two adults to snuggle up on, while still leaving a single front bunk for a child.

Of course, all this efficient interior living and sleeping space built into a very lightweight hard-sided popup trailer, with nice cargo storage does come with a tradeoff. There is no bathroom, simply a single sink for basic handwashing and perhaps cleaning up dishes.

This ultimately makes the Aliner – Scout-Lite one of the smallest and lightweight hard-sided popup campers for a couple with a small tow vehicle. 

5. Chalet A-Frame XL-1935

• Dry weight of 1,995 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 370 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,500 lbs.
• Optional dormer
• Electric roof lift system
• Solar prewiring
• Sleeps 3 to 4 people

The Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 is a hard-sided popup camper with a lot of optional extras to consider when you work with the manufacturer or one of their affiliated “Ambassadors.”

While things like the optional front dormer and optional wet bath can affect the dry weight and the potential gross vehicle weight rating, you are still looking at a model that will tip the scales at 3,500-pounds or less.

This is within range of a lot of popular domestic mid-size SUVs with a towing package equipped.

One of the other things that are attractive about the Chalet A-Frame XL-1935 is the fact that it comes prewired for solar and has LED lights installed.

Depending on whether or not you opt to have a wet bath and the necessary water storage tanks installed it can make this one of the best hard-sided popup campers for a small family that loves to spend a few days boondocking off the grid. 

6. Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW

• Length of 20 ft.
• Dry weight of 2,230 lbs.
• Payload capacity of 1,493 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 337 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,757 lbs.
• Fresh water storage capacity of up to 27 gallons
• 20,000 BTU furnace

The Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW is one of the best hard-sided popup campers for small families who love to travel with a lot of gear.

When fully loaded you can stack up to 1,493 pounds of cargo capacity it can tip the scales with a gross weight of up to 3,757-pounds, which can challenge what some mid-size SUVs can safely tow. 

Though if you happen to have a robust mid-size SUV or a full-size SUV with a towing package, then you will be treated with a lot of thoughtful storage potential.

Not to mention is a fresh water storage tank that is one of the largest in the hard-sided popup camper niche. 

The storage space of the Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW is very well thought out. It starts with a large exterior storage box with a quick release hatch on the front.

This lets you keep the tongue weight biased toward the front when you are towing, which helps with nimbleness.

When you set up camp, you can use the front storage box for keeping dirty shoes and other sundry items.

The interior of this hard-sided popup camper also has tons of storage in a compartment by the front dinette and a large flip-up storage compartment under the rear main bed. 

If there is a head-scratching complaint about the Coachmen – Viking V12RBSTHW it’s that you get a relatively large 27-gallon fresh water storage tank and a 6-gallon hot water heater as standard.

Though there isn’t any sort of wet bath or toilet option on the interior.

With some creative plumbing and a small privacy tent, you could run a hose and shower line from the kitchen sink out a window to take an outdoor shower. 

7. Aliner – Expedition

• Length of 18 ft.
• Dry weight of 1,850 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 240 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 3,500 bs.
• Fresh water storage capacity of up to 11 gallons

The Aliner – Expedition is another one of Aliners roomiest hard-sided pop-up campers. This is thanks in part to a pair of expandable dormers that provide additional headroom over the front dinette and the rear sofa.

This might just make the Aliner – Expedition the best hard-sided popup camper for families who need some extra headroom. 

One of the other things you can appreciate about the Aliner – Expedition is the 1,850-pound dry weight, which is well within the range of what most family mid-size SUVs can tow.

Yet it also has enough storage capacity to load it all the way up to a 3,500-pound gross vehicle weight.

If you do have a slightly under-powered SUV then you will need to be conscious about just how much you pack into this roomy hard-sided popup camper.

You might want to also make it a point to always travel with the fresh water storage tank empty. 

8. The Chalet LTW

• Length of 12.9 ft.
• Dry weight of 990 lbs.
• Tongue weight of 138 lbs.
• GVWR of up to 2,000 bs.
• Sleeps up to 2 people

The Chalet LTW is one of the lightest hard-sided pop-up campers on the market.

It only tips the scales with a dry weight of 990-pounds and when fully loaded it still has a maximum gross vehicle weight of only 2,000-pounds.

This makes it a great option if you have a small SUV or you truly do want to travel light and lean. 

One of the things to keep in mind when you work directly with Chalet or one of their “Ambassador” dealerships is the optional Trailboss Off Road Package.

It provides additional ground clearance, wider tires, an extra entry step, and a protective Rock Guard on the front.

This is a great option if you like to travel alone or with a significant other to primitive campgrounds or off-the-grid campsites. 

Just bear in mind that with a hard-sided popup camper this small, you aren’t going to get anything in the way of bathroom facilities.

So, you will need to add a portable toilet and a privacy tent to the list of things you can load into the 1,100 pounds of storage capacity. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cassette toilet.

With a lot of hard-sided popup campers that don’t offer a wet bath, will feature a cassette toilet.

This is a simple toilet with a removable 5-gallon black water storage tank. When it nears capacity, you simply remove the black water cassette and empty it out at an RV dump site.

This spares the weight and space of a traditional black water storage tank, while still providing you with a functional toilet for times when you might want to camp off the grid for a day or two. 

Do Hard-Sided Popup Campers Hold Their Value?

Just like any RV or vehicle, you will be staring at some immediate depreciation starting the second you drive it off the dealership’s lot.

In the first three to five years you can expect your hard-sided popup camper to lost 30 to 40% of its original value based on the MSRP.

Though they do tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional popup campers that typically suffer cracks and leaks in the canvas tent section. 

There are a lot of great hard-sided pop-up campers on the market. Finding the one that’s best for you will depend on the size of your family as well as your travel preferences. 

If you are just going to travel solo or with a significant other and you want to be able to camp off-road, then the Chalet LTW with the Trailboss Off Road Package might be the best hard-sided camper to meet your needs.

It is light enough to be pulled by a typical Jeep Wrangler, with all the features you need to tackle rough trails beyond the forgiving paved roads. 

If you need to sleep with one or two children and you need a proper toilet then the Aliner – Family might be the best hard-sided popup camper to meet your needs.

It provides your kids with their own sleeping space while providing the facilities you need to stay comfortable while you’re on the road.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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10 Best Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

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Hard-sided pop-up campers are a great option for new RVers who want to enjoy the great outdoors. They offer some protection from the elements and are easy to pull and store.

Most hard-sided pop-up campers can be pulled by a car or small SUV, are easy to put up and take down, and many have bathrooms and other useful amenities. Many can also be stored in a standard-size garage making indoor storage possible.

Pop-up campers with canvas sides are great but these hard-sided versions make camping a little more comfortable without busting your budget.

Let’s check out some advantages and disadvantages of hard-sided pop-up campers and see what manufacturers are creating in this RV category.

What is a Hard-Sided Pop-Up Camper?

Simply put, hard-sided pop-up campers are trailers that fold down into a small version for ease of travel. If you compare them to a tent trailer, also known as a pop-up camper, they simply have hard sides instead of canvas sides. This difference makes them closer to a regular pull-behind trailer than a tent.

Hard-sided pop-up campers feature solid walls made of materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, or composite panels. Solid walls provide protection against the elements and are more secure from human or animal intruders. These campers offer the strength of a travel trailer with the ease of a tent trailer.

7 Benefits Of Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

These “hybrids” are becoming more popular with nature lovers for many reasons. Let’s take a look at 7 great benefits of hard-sided pop-up campers.

1. Insulation

If you are someone who enjoys camping in all seasons, hard-sided pop-ups offer more insulation than regular pop-ups. Canvas sides make keeping warm or cool inside more difficult, while solid walls allow for better temperature control.

The hard-sided campers can retain more heat during the winter and cool air during the summer, making you more comfortable.

2. Durability

Of course, hard-sided pop-up campers are going to be more durable than canvas. Softer materials can sustain water damage, tears, snag on branches, or attract mold and mildew.

As a family of six, we started camping with our kids in a tent. We then moved to a canvas pop-up trailer which was great. We would have loved having a hard-sided pop-up camper for all the reasons I’ve listed here.

3. Bathrooms

Yes, many of these hard-sided pop-up campers even have bathrooms. This means more comfort for you. You can avoid the well-used campground bathroom or the pit toilets at state parks. Some of these even have showers.

Most won’t be very large and you may have a cassest toilet instead of a flush or no shower, however, it is still convenient.

4. Security and Privacy

Let’s be real. You just don’t get much privacy in a tent or a tent camper. The voices of your neighbors outside can be heard clearly and they can certainly hear you too. You will feel much more secure in a hard-sided pop-up camper.

Some brands and styles feature door and window locks, strong wall panels, and steel chassis. They protect you from almost anything in nature that might want to come inside including inclement weather, wild animals, or unwanted visitors.

5. Amenities

As I indicated, hard-sided pop-up campers are more likely to have bathrooms but you can also be sure they will have a kitchen with a sink, countertop, stovetop, and refrigerator.

Other things such as storage compartments, convertible seating, and even a king-size bed can also be included.

6. Fewer Restrictions at Certain RV Parks

For safety reasons, soft-sided campers could be restricted at some parks. Bears are a problem in many areas and food and trash could attract them to your camper. Canvas won’t keep them from getting into your stuff.

Once a bear finds easy food, it likely will become a nuisance. National Parks, state parks, and some private campgrounds don’t want this problem.

Hard-sided pop-up campers strike that balance with their convenience and ease of use, and their safety and compliance with restrictive campgrounds.

7. Easy Setup and Tear-Down

Hard-sided pop-up campers require a lot less assembly time than their canvas counterparts. First, you level your camper. Then, with most hard-sided pop-ups you simply unlatch the roof pieces and use an assistance pole that is included with the camper. Or just push them up if you are tall enough.

The roof snaps into place. Once the roof is in place, you can set the sidewalls and latch those into place. Then connect the two pieces of your door together with a latch and you are done. The teardown is similar, just backward.

If I remember correctly, with a soft-sided pop-up camper you raise the roof with a crank, slide out the bed or beds, and then button everything up with a lot of snaps.

Taking it down required cranking the roof down but it wasn’t as simple as it sounds. Once you had everything cleared for the beds to come in, you would be running around and around to push the canvas inside as the roof came down. It definitely took two people for the setup and tear-down.

Top 10 Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

If you’re sold on the idea of this hard-wall-style pop-up camper, look no further. We’ve assembled a list of 10 of our favorite hard-sided pop-up campers all perfect for your next adventure!

1. Aliner Family

• Length: 18’
• GVWR: 3,500 pounds
• CCC: 1,520 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 285 pounds

As the name implies, the Aliner Family is perfect for a camping family who wants the ease of towing with a homey feel when you arrive at your campsite. Any of the Aliner floorplans can easily sleep four with a dinette conversion or bunks.

The Family features city water hookups, a Fantastic fan, LED interior lights, and is pre-wired for solar. The electrical system is 120 volt/12 volt.

The Family is considered a deluxe version and has an 11-gallon freshwater tank, two-burner stove, large refrigerator with a freezer, hardwood cabinets, microwave, plenty of windows, and cable connection.

2. Chalet A-Frame XL 1935

• Length: 18’ 7”
• UVW: 2,165 pounds
• CCC: 1,335 pounds
• Tongue Weight:  370 pounds

As one of the most popular XL trailers, the Chalet XL 1935 model offers a permanent queen bed with plenty of under-bed storage. The dinette converts to a bed as well. You will love the 8’ of headroom in this pop-up.

A large galley, residential-height countertops, and windows and skylights provide ample light and views in all directions. There is also an optional wet bath and dormer available.

This self-contained folding trailer is easy to tow and quick to set up with a patented electronic roof lift system.

3. TrailManor 2518KD

• UVW: 2,600 pounds
• GVWR: 4,580 pounds
• CCC: 1980 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 320 pounds

The TrailManor 2518KD doesn’t need a large tow vehicle but you will have a large trailer experience when you open it up. You can tow these with a properly equipped minivan, crossover, or SUV.

These can also be stored in your standard-size garage and set up in just five minutes. You can even set up in the rain without everything inside getting wet!

Some features of the TrailManor include a dry bath with cassette toilet and shower, two burner stove, 3-way, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator, Fantastic vent fan, 20,000 BTU furnace, 20-gallon fresh water tank, and more.

4. Forest River Rockwood A122S

• Length: 18’ 8”
• UVW: 2,120 pounds
• GVWR: 3,284 pounds
• CCC: 1,164 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 284 pounds

The Forest River Rockwood A122S has a large storage area in the front and all the comfort features you could want in a small A-frame camper. It sets up in minutes with a large window on the front and a dinette that comfortably seats four.

The Rockwood also has a flip-up bed that is 54” X 80” and a dinette that makes it into a 45” X 80” bed, so you can easily sleep four. It boasts a 3-way refrigerator, outside griddle, 20-gallon freshwater tank, cassette toilet, and plenty of storage.

5. Antishanty AS1 Pro

• Length: 14’ 5”
• UVW: 2,000 pound

The Antishanty AS1 Pro is not your average hard-sided pop-up camper. It combines some of the best features of a travel trailer, toy hauler, teardrop, and overland trailer for a very cool rig. This tiny home has all the creature comforts you could want in an off-grid hard-sided pop-up trailer.

This trailer is compact for easy towing and storage, sleeps up to 4 adults in two queen beds, and has a whopping 9’ headroom. The insulated hard-sided cabin will keep you toasty no matter what season you are in.

Enjoy the six, shaded windows and skylight for plenty of natural light. When the sun goes down, you’ve got integrated indoor and outdoor lighting.

6. Aliner Evolution 12

• Length: 15′
• UVW: 2,000 pounds
• GVWR: 3,000 pounds
• CCC: 1,000 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 200 pounds

The Aliner Evolution 12 is one of this brand’s largest models with more living space, more storage, taller countertops, taller beds, and the highest capacity chassis. Even with more of everything, it is still a great hard-sided pop-up option that can be towed by many smaller fuel-efficient vehicles.

It is perfect for the whole family or a couple who just wants a little more room. The Evolution features an 11-gallon freshwater tank, plenty of electrical outlets, an optional off-road package, and much more. This little gem will easily get you to your favorite campsites.

7. Chalet LTW

• Length: 12’ 9”
• UVW: 990 pounds
• GVWR: 2,000 pounds
• CCC: 1,010 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 138 pounds

The Chalet LTW  is a small but unique trailer. It is easy to tow and maneuver around campsites, parking lots, or wherever the road might take you.

This unit includes standard features such as LED lighting, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator, two burner cooktop with cover, 16,000 BTU furnace, 3-speed fan, sink, and single propane tank. It has a 12-volt electric water pump and a 15-gallon freshwater tank. The Chalet LTW is pre-wired for solar and includes an optional solar package, and sleeps two.

Some of this model’s options include a rear bike rack receiver, dual propane tanks which include an automatic change-over regulator, a large front cargo box, a 6-gallon water heater with an outside shower, off-road suspension, and much more.

8. Taxa Mantis 

• Length: 19’
• UVW: 3,115 pounds
• GVWR: 4,200 pounds
• CCC: 986 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 435 pounds

The Taxa Mantis is a great adventure vehicle with plenty of room for the family. It has two activity areas at the front and rear of the floor plan and plenty of space in the middle. There is space to sleep at least four adults and its pop-up roof makes it feel more open.

It features a Dometic toilet and foldable shower, furnace, 8,000 BTU air conditioner, water heater, two-burner stove, full-size bed, folding couch/bunk bed system and much more for all your adventures.

With plenty of storage for the kitchen and bathroom, it also has a desk for any work you might need to get done.

9. Forest River Flagstaff T21DMHW

• Length: 21’ 2”
• UVW: 2,700 pounds
• GVWR: 3,353 pounds
• CCC: 653 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 353 pounds

Check out this unique high-wall A-frame which has a front dormer for added living area. The dormer allows for a full wet bath and front kitchen. You can set this one up quickly with the gas strut lift assist.

Up front, the Flagstaff T21DWHW  has a wet bath and kitchen. It comes with a CoolCat heat pump air conditioner, LP gas furnace, refrigerator, cooktop, and microwave. In the rear is a Queen-sized bed to prepare you for the next day.

Outside the features continue with a shower, stereo with indoor and outdoor speakers, exterior mount griddle, and work table. But that’s not it. This model also offers a 100-watt solar panel, aluminum wheels, storage compartments with a sliding trunk, ProRac Crossbars, 4 heavy-duty stabilizer jacks, and a spare tire.

You will lack nothing on this hard-sided pop-up camper.

10. Trailmanor 3124KB

• Length: 24’
• UVW: 3,140 pounds
• GVWR: 4,740 pounds
• CCC: 1,600 pounds
• Tongue Weight: 434 pounds

If you have a family and love having a towable and still stylish trailer, you will love the Trailmanor 3124KB . This model sleeps 7 and gives you the ultimate in amenities along with the same ease of setup as the smaller models.

You can enjoy a king-size bed in the KB and plenty of storage in the rear of the unit. The hard wall bathroom has a shower and tub, and the kitchen is complete with a three-burner stove, oven, sink, and 3-way, 3 cu. ft. refrigerator. The ample living space is great for relaxing and entertaining your friends.

The Trailmanor sets up quickly without having to unhitch and is light enough to be towed by a smaller tow vehicle.

Can You Tow A Hard-Sided Pop-Up Camper With A Car?

Many of these hard-sided pop-up campers can be towed with a car or a small SUV. Make sure you know your vehicle’s towing specifications before you purchase your trailer.

One of the great things about these trailers and the reason they are so popular is you generally don’t need a large truck to get these out on the road.

Do Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers Leak?

Of course, hard-sided pop-up campers have the potential to leak like other RVs. With the proper maintenance and regular inspection of seals, you will have a camper that will keep you seeking adventures for years to come.

Certainly, hard-sided pop-up campers are much less likely to leak than canvas pop-up trailers. However, one area of concern for hard-sided campers is any damage to the sides. Poorly maintained or deteriorated seals are also problematic.

Believe it or not. there are some models of pop-up campers that have slide-outs. Inspecting the slide areas for potential leaks is important. Moving parts always have the potential for problems. To learn more, check out our article called 8 Best Pop-Up Campers with Slide-Outs .

Checking seals often and making sure your camper is set up properly will help avoid leak issues. At the first sign of a leak, make sure to address it. Water damage spreads quickly and finds its way to places you won’t see.

Are Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers Worth the Money?

Hard-sided pop-up campers can cost anywhere from $10,000 to around $40,000. That is a big range for a relatively small camper. Is it worth the money? It could be, depending on what your tow vehicle is and what your camping plans might be.

As I said earlier, you don’t need to have a large tow vehicle with these, so it’s possible you won’t even need to purchase a vehicle to tow. You can buy a relatively nice travel trailer with a lot more room for $50,000 and up, but you will possibly need at least a half-ton truck to pull the trailer. That is another big investment.

You will want to consider what your current camping plans are when considering a hard-sided pop-up camper. It could work well for your weekend camping adventures with a small family or couple. Later, you might want to consider upgrading as you enjoy more time in the RVing world.

Hard-sided pop-up campers are currently enjoying a lot of popularity because they are easy to tow, and set up, and manufacturers are adding nice amenities such as bathrooms, showers, cassette toilets, well-apportioned kitchens, and more.

Can You Live Full-Time in a Pop-Up Camper?

Of course, you can live full-time in a hard-sided pop-up camper but first of all, you must consider your space needs. RVing is all about being outdoors so that’s likely where you will want to spend most of your time anyway.

Most of these campers do have options for an air conditioner and a furnace. However. they are not generally designed for full-time use so they may not hold up well in the long term.

Whether you are thinking about full-time or just weekends, rent a pop-up camper first. Pop-up campers aren’t a good fit for everyone so before cutting a check try one out.

Final Thoughts About Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

Hard-sided pop-up campers are a great option for anyone looking for ease of travel and easy setup. They are a great way to get your foot in the door of RVing without a massive financial commitment, both in the trailer and the tow vehicle.

Older canvas pop-up campers have some negativity surrounding them but that shouldn’t deter you from a hard-sided pop-up. These campers are a great option for singles, couples, and even small families.

The value and ease of towing they offer make them a very attractive way to get out and enjoy the RV life!

Related Reading:

– 10 best pop-up campers for beginners, – what exactly is a pop-up camper, – 7 best pop-up campers that sleep 8, – can you put a bike rack on a pop-up camper, about the author:.

Terri Nighswonger and her husband Todd have been RVing and work camping for five years with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Minnie Australian Shepherd, Remi.

They originate from the Midwest but plan to enjoy the West for a few years, wintering in Arizona and summering wherever the road may lead. Writing is Terri’s passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors.

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Best Pop-Up Campers – Top Picks & Reviews

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Pop up campers are fantastic for quick camping trips, especially as the weather is warming up.  They offer a great middle-ground between full-on RVing and tent camping. However, with numerous options to choose from, finding the best pop-up campers can be challenging. Fortunately, we’ve done all the homework for you. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a pop-up camper and explore some of our top picks in the best pop-up campers section.

Table of Contents

Top picks for the best pop-up campers, best lightweight camper, most luxurious, most options, best small pop up, best for families, easiest setup, recap: the best pop-up campers, durability and construction, features and amenities, accessories, ease of maintenance, final thoughts, deeper details on our recommendations.

Below, we dive into all the nitty-gritty details for each of our top picks.

Quicksilver 8.0

The Quicksilver Tent Pop-Up Camper is an excellent choice for a group of friends or a family looking to get away. It’s available in six colors and features a fiberglass exterior. You also get to choose from four-floor plans depending on your preferences.

Apart from being affordable, the camper comes with a sleeping capacity for three to six people.  It weighs about 92-186 pounds with the dry hitch and an unloaded weight of 694-1106 pounds The 12-inch tires ensure its stability.

One outstanding aspect is the aluminum construction that makes the Quicksilver pop-up camper lightweight . That makes handling and maneuverability easier. You won’t have to struggle with setting up the pop-up camper as it comes equipped with pre-wires for solar, a swivel jack on the tongue, and stabilizer jacks to make setup simpler.

Inside are lightweight countertops, crack-proof linoleum, aluminum cabinetry, and under-seat storage for extra comfort and usability. The exterior has a tubular aluminum frame with vacuum-bonded walls. These walls are laminated with composite for longevity and weather protection.

On the downside, the towing feature requires an improvement. It also lacks a screen room option, but this is available to buy separately.

• Lightweight and durable design
• Has laminated floor and storage compartments under the seats
• Fitted with alumni cabinetry
• Comes with aluminum rims, nitro-filled radial tires, and diamond plate exterior trim
• First-timers may find the setup time consuming
• Lacks a screen room option

Jayco Jay Sport Pop Up Trailer

The Jayco Jay Sport Pop Up Trailer redefines luxury with its high-end quality features and fantastic interior. Inside is wall-to-wall vinyl flooring and sinks made of acrylic. The stove is stainless steel, and you can use it both indoors or outdoors.

If you’re planning to spend more time at your campsite, you’ll love the residential cabinetry that allows you to stash more items to ensure you are comfortable. The dinette with reversible cushions is an added advantage.

Another area where this pop-up trailer excels is the user-friendly setup, It comes with extra-wide lifter posts that have pushrods. The tongue jack makes leveling easier. You can go cruising in any type of campsite condition and road thanks to the aluminum embossed super lube finishing. The Norco A-frame is scratch and corrosion-resistant. What’s more, the DuraTek tent camper is water-repellent, something that comes in handy during rainstorms.

Unfortunately, this pop-up camper isn’t ideal for a group of people or large families. The towing feature may also mean a rough ride on bumpy roads.

• Comes with an impressive range of features for a comfortable experience
• High ground clearance for rough terrain
• User-friendly setup
• Is a waterproof Duratek tent camper
• Not durable in extreme weather conditions
• Not suitable for groups of people or families
• Towing won’t work well on bumpy roads

Forest River Flagstaff

The Forest River Flagstaff can accommodate two to eight people comfortably. With eight floor plans to choose from, you get to have multiple choices. In the kitchen are a high-rise faucet, a three-burner stove, a double-pan sink, and a microwave. You also get USB ports, a Wi-Fi booster, a TV outlet, a safety breaker, and more.

Setting up the pop-up camper is simple thanks to the four EZ crank-down stabilizer jacks with sand pads, a powder-coated steel frame, and the fiberglass vacuum exterior. The pop-up camper boasts high-grade material that guarantees longevity.

One fantastic feature that previous buyers loved is the thermostatically controlled heated mattress that comes in handy during those chilly nights. The reasonably-priced pop-up camper provides optional appliances like a three-burner gas stove with an oven and a three-way fridge.

What we didn’t like about this pop-up camper is that it doesn’t come with high-ground clearance or mud tires. The hard sidewalls limit your options, too.

• Comes with a 20-gallon under-floor freshwater tanks
• Boasts of features of a camper and a trailer
• Fitted with all the appliances
• Maple interior and two-toned seating
• Has a robust wall exterior
• Eight floor plans to choose from
• Doesn’t have a screen room
• Lacks mud tires as a standard feature

Coachmen Clipper

If you’re looking for uniquely-designed pop-up campers, the Coachmen Clipper camper is an excellent choice. It’s designed to make your work easy thanks to its convenient setup. Its aerodynamic profiling provides easy towing.

You also get the Glide-N-Lock bedding system. Users get 16 different floor plans to choose from. Furthermore, there are two different hitch weight options-73 pounds with an exterior open length of 9ft and 105 pounds with an open length of 14.5 feet.

The interior boasts residential cabinet doors, laminated countertops, four-inch heated mattresses, walnut cabinetry, and more. On the exterior are LED exterior lamps, laminated fiberglass, zero exposure bunk technology, and more to ensure your safety with changing road and weather conditions.

However, we didn’t like the fact that the Coachmen Clipper camper is a bit expensive and isn’t available in different exterior colors.

• Has an impressive array of features
• Comes with 16 different floor plans
• Durable and lightweight construction
• Lacks different color options
• Not ideal for extreme weather
• May be expensive for those on a budget
• Some users found that the generator compartment may flood with rain

Starcraft Comet

Featuring a lightweight design the Starcraft Comet is ranked as one of the best pop-up campers for families. The interior has a kitchen section, a bed section, and amenities like a toilet, shower, and sink.

It boasts of quality build and its heavy-duty frame allows you to bring along loads. While at first, you may find pop-up campers a bit challenging to set up, with time, the process will be easier and quicker. Its quality tires keep you safe when you’re hauling the camper.

On the downside, the Starcraft Comet only has space for three people, which makes it limiting for big families.

• Has plenty of amenities
• Sturdy construction
• Simple to set up
• Not ideal for big families

Air Opus 4-Sleeper Camper

Having pop-up campers that can handle both on and off-road performance is something you won’t find in most trailers. Nonetheless, the Air Opus 4-Sleeper Camper gives you this and more.

Pop-up campers get to enjoy extra space that can be used for storing sporting equipment and cargo. Its body is made from aluminum and the chassis features galvanized steel. You’ll love how this pop-up camper handles rocky areas and dirt roads thanks to its brake system and suspension.

The setup process takes five minutes, which includes setting up the interior equipment. Another unique aspect is the high ceiling that offers natural light and views. I actually rented one of these last years and loved it, it really only took me a few minutes to set up and get going.

The trailer also has independent coil spring suspension and a 12-inch electric brake for added off-roading experience. Moreover, the fabric is water and wind-resistant. Other extra features include a pressurized water dispenser, a four-burner gas stove, two water tanks, and a space for 2-9kgs gas cylinders.

• Perfect for dirt roads and rocky areas
• Ideal for family gatherings
• Rain-proof and tough tent fabric
• Spacious cargo storage
• Inflates and deflates easily and quickly
• The batteries are not durable
• Lacks ample cargo space
• Quicksilver 8.0 Camper – Best Lightweight Camper
• Jayco Jay Sport Pop Up Trailer – Most Luxurious Camper
• Forest River Flagstaff – Most Options
• Coachmen Clipper – Best Small Pop Up
• Starcraft Comet – Best for Families
• Air Opus 4-Sleeper Camper – Easiest Setup

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pop-up Camper

A pop-up camper is an excellent alternative to a travel trailer for folks who are packing light for shorter trips.  Apart from being affordable,  they are lightweight, user-friendly, simple to clean, and easier to store. However, given the various brands available in the market, you may find it daunting to settle on one.

Of course, the budget may also be a consideration, and you may look for the cheapest pop-up camper. This may not always be a good idea as you may sacrifice quality.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a pop-up camper. These tips will help you find a pop-up camper trailer that fits your needs and budget.

Pop-up camper’s construction dictates their durability. The pop-up camper should have a sturdy structure and include quality materials like aluminum and steel. When checking the construction, don’t forget to consider the floor plans.

Many pop-up campers for sale will usually have 8-foot, 10-foot, 12-foot, and 14-foot. floor variants. These are numbers representing the ample sleeping space of the area of the camper. You’ll find pop-up campers with high exterior walls, a dedicated shower, and kitchenette space.

Another essential consideration when checking a camper’s durability is its heater resistance features. It should protect you in case of rain or sun.

The best pop-up camper should be simple to set up and shouldn’t take a lot of time to assemble. With the majority of small pop-up campers for sale, all you need is to slide the sleeping compartment out and roll up the roof. Furthermore, it should be easily foldable when you are not using it. Don’t forget that your truck camper should be simple to tow with your car.

Pop-up campers are meant to make your experience outdoors comfortable. The best camper should have the right amenities and features for your convenience. Even small pop-up campers tend to have a sitting area, toilet/shower facilities, a heating/cooling system, and storage space for their items.

Some other added amenities include a refrigerator, USB ports, Wi-Fi routers, and other luxurious components. Check to see if the camper has space to accommodate a heater and an AC as the temperatures outside can interfere with your camper experience.

Although most pop-up campers come with everything you need to set up, you should pay attention to leveling blocks and stabilizer jacks.

Wheel chocks or leveling blocks help to level the camper as they slip under or next to the wheel to keep the trailer flat and prevent any rolling.

Stabilizer jacks prevent the trailer from tipping side to side as you are walking around the interior. Most pop-up campers have two stabilizers that are built into the frame, but small truck campers lack this essential accessory.

Maintenance and care are crucial for worry-free camper usage. You need to check for wear and tear, holes, and anything that may interfere with the camper’s waterproofing capabilities.  The best camper should be simple to maintain and care for throughout.

Choosing the right pop-up camper or A-frame rig is crucial for enjoying your camping trip and any adventures this spring and summer. Starting with our list of the top six options, this should get you off to a good start. In no time, you’ll be out adventuring and enjoying the best pop-up camper for your family’s needs.

Want something a little more significant? Check out our guide on the best RVs for full-time living .

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Mike leads research, writes, and keeps the site up and running. He's worked on upgrades to an old class A Winnebago, vans, and other homes - wherever they are.

Is a Pop Up Camper Worth It? Pros and Cons to Consider

P op-up campers are a popular choice for camping enthusiasts who want to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. These campers offer a unique blend of affordability, convenience, and comfort that make them an attractive option for many people. However, the question remains: Is a pop up camper worth it ?

If you know me, you know that we have one. It is a cute Starcraft gem that is from the mid 80’s and we have dressed it up, fixed it up, and made it something that belongs in this century. We scored it on Facebook a few years ago for $1,200 and have gotten a lot of use out of it. While it hogs one of my garage car slots over the winter, it is easy to fit into our garage. It simply met our needs!

One of the main advantages of pop-up campers is their affordability. Compared to other types of RVs, pop-up campers tend to be much cheaper, making them an excellent entry point for those who are looking to get started with trailers. You can find a pop-up camper that suits your needs anywhere between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on the model, age, and features if looking on your local Facebook Marketplace or even Craigslist.

However, affordability is not the only factor to consider when deciding whether a pop-up camper is worth it. There are also other pros and cons to weigh, such as ease of use, storage, and durability. In this article, we will take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of pop-up campers to help you determine whether they are the right choice for your camping needs.

Understanding Pop Up Campers

What is a pop up camper.

A pop-up camper, also known as a tent camper or folding camper, is a type of recreational vehicle that is designed to be lightweight and easy to tow. These campers are often made of canvas or other lightweight materials and can be folded down for easy storage and transport.

When fully set up, a pop-up camper provides a comfortable and convenient living space for camping. They typically include a sleeping area, a small kitchen, and a dining area, and some models even have a bathroom and shower.

Types of Pop Up Campers

There are two main types of pop-up campers: soft-sided and hard-sided. Soft-sided pop-up campers are typically less expensive and lighter in weight, but they offer less protection from the elements and are not as durable as hard-sided models.

Hard-sided pop-up campers, on the other hand, are more expensive and heavier, but they offer more protection from the elements and are more durable. They are also generally more secure and offer better insulation, making them a good choice for camping in colder weather.

Pop-up campers come in a variety of sizes and styles, from small models that can be towed by a car to larger models that require a truck or SUV. Some models are designed for off-road use, while others are better suited for use in campgrounds and RV parks.

When considering whether a pop-up camper is worth it, it is important to think about your camping needs and budget. While pop-up campers can be a great option for those who want a comfortable and convenient camping experience, they may not be the best choice for everyone.

Benefits of Owning a Pop Up Camper

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your camping adventures, a pop-up camper is definitely worth considering. Here are some of the benefits of owning a pop-up camper:

Affordability

Pop-up campers are one of the most affordable types of campers you can buy. The average cost of a new pop-up camper ranges between $10,000 to $20,000, which is significantly less expensive than other types of RVs. You can also find used pop-up campers for under $10,000.

Portability

One of the biggest advantages of owning a pop-up camper is its portability. Pop-up campers are easy to tow and can be hauled by most vehicles, including family sedans. They also have a small footprint, making them easy to store and park, even in tight spaces.

Pop-up campers provide more protection from the weather compared to traditional tent camping . They have a solid roof and walls, which offer better insulation and protection from the elements. You can also customize the interior to suit your preferences and needs. Some pop-up campers come with amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and kitchens, which can make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Convenience

Setting up a pop-up camper is quick and easy. Most pop-up campers can be set up in less than 30 minutes, making them ideal for weekend getaways or spontaneous trips. They also offer more storage space compared to traditional tent camping, allowing you to bring along more gear and equipment.

Overall, owning a pop-up camper can be a great investment for those who enjoy camping and want a more comfortable and convenient camping experience without breaking the bank.

Drawbacks of Pop Up Campers

While pop up campers can be a great way to experience the outdoors without breaking the bank, they do come with some drawbacks that you should consider before making a purchase. Here are some of the most common drawbacks of pop up campers:

Limited Space

One of the biggest drawbacks of pop up campers is their limited space. While they are great for short camping trips, they can quickly become cramped if you’re planning on spending an extended period of time in them. Pop up campers are generally designed to sleep 2-4 people, which means that you’ll need to be very strategic with your packing and storage.

Lack of Amenities

Another drawback of pop up campers is their lack of amenities. Unlike larger RVs, pop up campers often don’t come with a bathroom or kitchen. This means that you’ll need to rely on public restrooms and outdoor cooking facilities while camping. While some pop up campers do come with basic amenities like a sink and stove, they are still limited compared to what you would find in a larger RV.

Maintenance and Durability Issues

Pop up campers are generally less durable than other types of RVs, which means that they require more maintenance. The canvas walls can be prone to leaks and tears, which can be costly to repair. Additionally, the folding mechanism can be difficult to operate and can wear out over time. If you’re planning on using your pop up camper frequently, you’ll need to be prepared to invest time and money into maintenance and repairs.

Overall, while pop up campers can be a great way to experience the outdoors, they do come with some drawbacks that you should consider before making a purchase. If you’re looking for a more spacious and amenity-rich camping experience, you may want to consider investing in a larger RV.

Comparing Pop Up Campers with Other RV Types

When it comes to choosing an RV, there are many options available. Pop up campers are just one of several types of RVs that you can choose from. Here are some of the pros and cons of pop up campers compared to other types of RVs:

Pop Up Campers vs. Travel Trailers

Travel trailers are larger and more spacious than pop up campers, but they are also heavier and more difficult to maneuver. Pop up campers are easier to tow and store, making them a great option for those who don’t have a lot of space or who want to be able to tow their RV with a smaller vehicle.

Pop Up Campers vs. Fifth Wheels

Fifth wheels are similar to travel trailers, but they are designed to be towed by a pickup truck rather than a car or SUV. They are larger and more spacious than pop up campers, but they also require a larger vehicle to tow them. They can also be more expensive than pop up campers.

Pop Up Campers vs. Motorhomes

Motorhomes are the most expensive and most luxurious type of RV. They are essentially a home on wheels, with all the amenities and comforts of home. However, they are also the most difficult to maneuver and park, and they require a special license to drive. Pop up campers are much easier to tow and store, making them a more practical option for many people.

Overall, pop up campers are a great option for those who want the convenience and comfort of an RV without the high cost and difficulty of maneuvering a larger RV. They are easy to tow, easy to store, and easy to set up, making them a great choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Pop Up Camper

When considering whether a pop up camper is worth it for your needs, there are several factors to take into account. Here are three key factors to consider when buying a pop up camper:

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a pop up camper is your budget. Pop up campers are generally less expensive than larger travel trailers or RVs, but they still come in a range of prices. Consider how much you are willing to spend and what features are most important to you. Keep in mind that while a higher budget may allow for more features and amenities, it may not always be necessary depending on your intended use.

Intended Use

Another factor to consider when buying a pop up camper is your intended use. Are you planning on using it for weekend camping trips or for longer vacations? Will you be using it for solo camping or with a family? Consider the size and layout of the camper, as well as any specific features you may need, such as a bathroom or kitchenette. Additionally, think about the types of environments you will be camping in and whether the pop up camper is suitable for those conditions.

Towing Capacity

When buying a pop up camper, it’s important to consider your vehicle’s towing capacity. Pop up campers are generally lighter and easier to tow than larger travel trailers or RVs, but they still require a vehicle with sufficient towing capacity. Make sure to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its towing capacity and compare it to the weight of the pop up camper you are considering. Additionally, consider any additional equipment you may need, such as a weight distribution hitch or sway control.

Overall, when considering whether a pop up camper is worth it for you, it’s important to take these factors into account and make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts on Is a Pop Up Camper Worth It

Pop-up campers offer a unique camping experience that combines the freedom of tent camping with the comfort and convenience of an RV. While they have their pros and cons, deciding whether or not a pop-up camper is worth it ultimately depends on your individual needs, budget, and camping style.

Some of the advantages of a pop-up camper include affordability, ease of storage and set-up, protection from the weather, and the ability to be towed by most vehicles. Additionally, pop-up campers are more spacious and safer than a tent, making them a great option for families or groups.

However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Pop-up campers can be expensive, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the make and model. Additionally, they may not offer as many amenities as a larger RV, and their limited space and privacy may not be suitable for everyone.

Overall, if you are looking for a camping option that offers a balance of comfort and affordability, a pop-up camper may be worth considering. However, it is important to carefully evaluate your needs and budget before making a purchase, and to thoroughly research different models to find one that best fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the disadvantages of a pop-up camper.

Pop-up campers have thinner walls than RVs or motorhomes, which makes it harder to control the climate inside, whether hot or cold. They also have less storage space, which can be an issue for longer trips. Additionally, pop-up campers are not as durable as other types of RVs and may require more maintenance.

What is the advantage of a pop-up camper?

Pop-up campers are lightweight, making them easier to tow and maneuver. They also offer more amenities than traditional camping, including a comfortable bed, a kitchenette, and a dining area. Pop-up campers are also more affordable than other types of RVs, making them a great option for those on a budget.

Are pop-up campers practical?

Pop-up campers are practical for those who enjoy camping and want a more comfortable experience than traditional tent camping. They are also practical for those who want to travel and explore different areas without the expense of a larger RV.

How long does a pop-up camper last?

The lifespan of a pop-up camper depends on how well it is maintained and how often it is used. With proper maintenance, a pop-up camper can last for many years.

What are the best pop-up campers for couples?

The best pop-up campers for couples are those that offer a comfortable sleeping area, a kitchenette, and a dining area. Some popular options include the Forest River Rockwood, the Jayco Jay Sport, and the Coachmen Clipper.

What should I consider before buying a used pop-up camper?

Before buying a used pop-up camper, it is important to inspect it thoroughly for any damage or signs of wear and tear. You should also check the appliances and electrical systems to ensure they are in good working condition. Additionally, you should consider the age, model, and overall condition of the camper before making a purchase.

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The post Is a Pop Up Camper Worth It? Pros and Cons to Consider first appeared on Crazy Camping Girl .