After a tiring week at work, with the weekend joyfully looming ahead of me, I often find myself fantasizing about a short sweet getaway! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. The pandemic may restrict my actual traveling plans, but it definitely cannot restrict my daydreams about vacations! Jetsetting on a flight may not be a practical option right now, but I do think Camping is a plausible plan. There’s nothing more comforting or exciting than lounging about in a cozy trailer while you explore the countryside. You never feel out of place, because these little trailers manage to feel like a home on wheels! Fill it up with your dear belongings, and it’s your home away from home. Not to mention the trailer designs today are super innovative and inventive! From a Porsche concept trailer to an aerodynamic and lightweight EV trailer – these resourceful trailers manage to cater to almost all of our needs, solving various problems, and turning our camping experience into a fulfilling and comfortable one.
1. Lightship L1
Joining the ranks of lightweight towable trailers is the luxury-packed Lightship L1 camping trailer towable by an EV pickup truck. It comes with a 40kWh battery onboard (upgradable to 80kWh), which can power the built-in systems and all electric appliances, charging the vehicle while off the grid.
Why is it noteworthy?
Almost ‘3 times as aerodynamic as a classic trailer,’ the L1 is designed to look different, but the difference is not limited to its openable glass panel windows all around. Constructed from automotive-grade composite material, the trailer derives its aerodynamic shape using a virtual wind tunnel.
What we like
- The roof and dual awnings are installed with solar panels that produce up to 3kW of energy, which the trailer uses to keep the battery charged
- The roof extends upward, by a good three feet in Camp Mode, from 6.9 feet when the trailer is on the road (Road Mode)
What we dislike
- The interiors are only renders right now, so we don’t what they would actually look like
2. eStream and Thor Vision Vehicle
Airstream is finally going electric with its two newly announced EV concepts namely eStream and Thor Vision Vehicle. The eStream trailer developed in close quarters with European subsidiary Erwin Hymer Group and tech company ZF, addresses the lingering issue with most campers and RVs – that being – the need for extra power which in turn limits the range of towing vehicles.
Why is it noteworthy?
Whether the eStream is hooked onto a pure electric vehicle like the Tesla Model 3 or the hybrid Ford Escape – the trailer by Thor Industries (Airstream’s parent company) is not just dead weight. This is done with the dual independent motors and the two onboard lithium-ion battery packs. The Thor’s advanced electrical architecture brings to the fore regenerative braking energy as the motors can be used to apply torque to the wheels in both directions.
What we like
- The trailer can be operated remotely via an app when it’s detached from the towing vehicle
- Comes with solar panels for off-grid camping on extended adventures
What we dislike
- The eStream weighs more than traditional trailers
3. Prokosheva’s Trailer
Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just a weekend getaway, this travel trailer thriving on the comfort of a yacht can provide a relaxed and convenient way to explore the great outdoors.
Why is it noteworthy?
The arrangement within the travel trailer is what makes it even more exciting: the front door on the opposite side of the kitchen allows for an increase in living room space that provides occupants with a separate area in case the kitchen is being utilized. An awning is provided that you can install at the campsite to bask in the sun or chat over a cup of Joe.
What we like
- The trailer has two interconnected heated tanks, each with a capacity of 80 liters, and rooftop solar panels for power needs
What we dislike
- As it is a concept, the actual manufacturing process will bring about fundamental changes in this design
4. The Hitch Hotel
The Hitch Hotel is a small towable, expandable, and stowable trailer that measures only 3.5 feet once it is folded for storage. You can tag the trailer to the back of any car, and it retracts a bit over 7 feet, occupying minimum space.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Hitch Hotel features a fiberglass body, designed to keep the overall weight of the trailer down to the bare minimum. Meant to sleep you after the sun goes down, it can be used to stow your gear when it’s trailing behind your car. Despite its form factor, the Hitch Hotel remains close to a conventional trailer in form and function. It has a marine-grade canvas lining on the inside with padded insulation to maintain overnight temperature for inhabitants.
What we like
- Well-ventilated
- Compact and tiny form
What we dislike
- Owners have to invest in their own sleeping mattress that fits this setup
5. Vespa Teardrop Trailer
Thomas Burick designed a micro teardrop trailer to accompany his 1962 Vespa. It is created from foam topped with a sheet of homemade fiberglass. Its design is based on a 1947 Cabin Car trailer, which has been worked up to let Thomas “Roam in Foam.”
Why is it noteworthy?
Since Thomas wanted the trailer to be more than a place to snooze in after a long ride; a kitchenette has been provided with ample storage space: cabinets and shelves with sliding doors. The shape of the trailer is nicely arched for headspace and stability on the 25-pound base it stations itself on. The interiors are well-lit with natural light penetrating the windows made of acrylic. The door is finished with metal skirting for additional stability.
What we like
- Equipped with a kitchenette
- Well-arched for headspace and stability
What we dislike
- It may not be the most stable ride against strong winds and rain
6. Grounded RV’s Towable
Camping with family, friends or even when you’re in the outdoors all solo, a travel trailer ensures convenience and comfort. A towable with the ideal balance of luxury and convenience maintains unforgettable outdoor adventure, and this is what this Grounded RV’s towable with a unique aerodynamic design guarantees.
Why is it noteworthy?
Made from advanced composite materials, the expandable towable is designed durable and lightweight. This streamlined layout reduces drag to make sure you get enhanced fuel efficiency, while the RV’s unique hydraulic system ensures a smooth transition between towing and living model.
What we like
- The interior is insulated while the rooftop 1,500W solar panels power the remotely controlled electronics and appliances
- Offers all the comforts of a home in the great outdoors
What we dislike
- It’s not yet available in the market so the effectiveness of the hydraulic system is untested
7. The Switchback Trailer
If you always wanted to hook a hardcore off-roading trailer to match your Jeep’s capability to conquer tough terrain, then the Switchback trailer by Off Grid Trailers is a god-sent blessing. Perfectly tailored for people who are a bit skeptical about going for an off-roading trip to the Rocky Mountains with a trailer towing at the rear, this hardcore trailer won’t let you have any semblance of even the slightest doubt. If your Jeep can conquer that stretch of a rocky patch (not meant for your average vehicle), then this trailer will have you covered.
Why is it noteworthy?
Although the trailer has a tow-friendly construction for any off-roading four-wheeler you hook onto it, the Jeep-matched wheels and the wheelbase makes it ultra-compatible with the vehicle. Switchback weighs just 1,300 lb thanks to the aluminum and steel body construction –giving it the right balance for any arduous trip. The makers have been mindful enough to offer the storage abundant trailer in two configurations – one having a rear kitchen setup (popular with most of the US Overlanding vehicles) while the other offering a side kitchen option.
What we like
- Equipped with solar charging
- The tent increases space for two people
What we dislike
- Hefty price tag
8. The Mini Pop Bee Active Gear
Mystic has outfitted this camper for off-road rides in a delightfully compact form factor that should not leave you wanting even if you have to extend the road trip for some reason. Despite sharing traits, the Mini Pop Bee Active Gear has a more integrated design than other similar truck campers on the market; it offers access from the rear door and is aptly sized to accommodate up to four people. This is done comfortably by converting the small cabin into a bedroom and pop-up roof providing more space to sleep additional travelers in the flip-up bed.
Why is it noteworthy?
Camping in the wild is an experience none of us adventurers can resist. Therefore, the vehicle for our adventures should have the competence to negotiate rough terrains and present a glamping- esque experience. The Mini Pop Bee Active Gear based on the truck variant of the Daihatsu Hijet ticks all the boxes. Available in a 4-wheel drive model, the truck camper is fitted with rough terrain tires and suspension to bear the brunt.
What we like
- Affordably priced
- Option between 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive models
What we dislike
- Old fashioned aesthetics
- No integrated stove in the kitchenette. You need to carry your own portable stove
9. The Bailey Discovery D4-2 Camper Trailer
The Bailey Discovery D4-2 Camper Trailer is one such creation, tailored for adventure enthusiasts who can’t help but satiate their wanderlust – exploring the untrodden trails. The USP of this camper trailer is its inflatable awning which creates almost double the private space you need for your escapades under the star-studded nights.
Why is it noteworthy?
On the inside, D4-2 is equipped with all the amenities and a fully furnished interior. Enough to suffice the needs of a couple on their long road trip – with the odd guest coming along the way for a couple of days. The big windows on all sides and the skylight fills the interiors with enough sunlight for a calming feel. The lounge area includes two couches and a fold-down table. In the kitchen, you’ll get an oven/grill combo appliance, a drop-down worktop extension, and a sink. On the opposite side, there is a mini-fridge with space underneath to store food and beverages. You also get the convenience of a shoes and clothes closet along with a separate area for cabinet storage. Of course, there is a good-sized bathroom too!
What we like
- Feels like a separate space
- Made from weather-resistant fabric
What we dislike
- The attached sleeping tent is optional in design
10. Airstream x Porsche Trailer
Airstream has been an innovative RV manufacturer, but this Porsche-designed next-gen Airstream trailer is far from what the former has managed through the years. A result of “what if” collaboration between the two design stalwarts, the concept may be starkly different but it deviates ever so little from Airstream’s signature riveted aluminum look.
Why is it noteworthy?
A first-of-its-type Airstream trailer with a lowered suspension, this Porsche design is more optimized for towing with electric vehicles. The design allows several things to be tucked into the 10-inch space below that trailer’s floor. So, you get water tanks, heating components, a spare wheel, and a Lithium-ion battery all tucked in there to save you space onboard.
What we like
- Provision to integrate rooftop solar panels
- The airstream features an aerodynamic shape with the front improved for airflow, while its flush underside design ensures reduced drag-creating projection
What we dislike
- Given that it’s a Porsche-inspired design, we wish to look at the manufactured design before reviewing it
