I don’t really have a thing for hard-top campers, they look overly bulky and have a more rigid approach to the idea of accessible camping. Wilderness Vans Range slide-in campers (R1 and R2) have a little bias going their way, chiefly because these are designed for all-year-round off-grid camping, and are built spaciously with all the amenities onboard. In fact, windows and skylights allow a constant flow of natural light and fresh air, preventing the occupants inside the Spacekap Diablo from feeling stuffy but have a pleasant interior to themselves.
Diablo only forms the foundation of the slide-in camper designed to snugly fit the bed of any heavy-duty truck. Given its unibody design, the camper can be removed easily when not required or you want to install it on a new ride. The excitement about the Range R1 (three-person model) starts at the exterior which has a UV-resistant SK gelcoat you can have painted in a choice of color you want. The 6-foot camper has a well-thought-out floor plan accommodating a sliding bed, dinette, galley and storage.
Designer: Wilderness Vans
The Range campers are fully insulated for all weather usage. It comes with natural fiber and wool installation in the walls and ceilings and the cushioned wood flooring is layered with cell foam for thermal performance in winter and to keep the interior cool during the summer months. A diesel air heater is also included as an option. Since ventilation is essential in truck campers for an enjoyable camping experience; the Range campers make provision for it with curved windows, matching the contour of your pick-up body, and skylights adding to light and ventilation.
The pull-out bed at one end of the camper turns the small space into a nice living quarter without hampering the living space. The headroom is limited on the bed because there is no pop-up option (I told you hard shells are not my thing), but the ventilation makes up so you don’t at any time feel cramped in there. Access into the Range campers is through the 40/60 back doors that lead you first up into the galley spruced with storage options everywhere.
In the cooking space itself is a gas stove and sink, a fridge/freezer, and pull-out countertop surfaces. Just across is the dinette for two that converts into a bed for one additional person in the R1. In the 8-foot Range R2, this dinette is bellowing the extending bed and is slightly bigger to transform into a double bed when required. The bench here can accommodate a portable toilet underneath it to make the camping experience less stressful. For its outdoor ability, the Range Campers come with a 200-watt solar charging station to take care of the power needs in off-grid locations. According to the information on Wilderness Vans website, the Range R1 with its gorgeous yellow interior is priced at CA$56,200 (approx. $42,000).
There are different kinds of people who go camping. There are those that really want to rough it out in the middle of nature, away from the bare necessities that we’ve gotten used to every day. But there are also those that want to stay close to their creature comforts while still experiencing some semblance of the great outdoors. If you’re more of the latter, this Mad Max-looking vehicle may be the one for you.
Designer: Bruder
The Bruder EXP-8 is the flagship vehicle from the Australian adventure trailer manufacturer. If you want to experience an outdoor adventure, you can do so in the comfort of this off-grid camper trailer that is “designed and built for all seasons and environments”. You will be able to drive through the most uneven of terrains and the most extreme climactic conditions as it has 12 inches of suspension travel and three times more usable wheel travel than others in its category.
On the outside, it looks like something out of a Mad Max movie, but with a sleeker and sturdier look. Inside, it is spacious and has a pretty luxurious set up complete with a fully functional kitchen, a living room, bedroom, a bathroom that looks like those you can see in hotels, and gallery windows so you can enjoy a good view of the outdoors. It also has solar panels, a 20 KwH battery, and a 500W inverter so you can get enough power for four people inside the camper.
While it looks tough and heavy, they used lightweight construction for the Bruder EXP-8. It is also able to calibrate its height to fit different kinds of tow vehicles. It can even level out on sloping camp spots so you can enjoy the best of both worlds while camping out in luxury.
Clean, spacious design with amenities to suffice your day’s outing, or even extended stays, has to be the standpoint of a travel trailer. Of course, each one we come across, from day to day, has the bases covered, but then some surpass the obvious and leave you in awe: a desire propagates and you keep looking on. The Vast travel trailer is an embodiment of this kind, with its striking green exterior and an interior you don’t want to get out of.
Designed and developed by SylvanSport, the Vast travel trailer is meant for those who like more from the basics. At first gawk, the trailer is not more than a metallic green block for the eyes to behold, but when you take it out for a spin, this guy can transform into an interesting camper of choices to add and transform.
Designer: SylvanSport
And when we say that, we mean it for the umpteen facilities it packs within, which includes a ceiling retractable bed, converting sofa, and a very interesting slide-out kitchen. This may just intrigue a few, but the trailer becomes a wonder for all enthusiasts’ interest at a campsite where the awning effortlessly stretches out and the rooftop solar panels do their bit of storing energy for the night.
Within the Vast travel trailer, there are two actual queen-size beds. One hides in the ceiling until you need at: It slides down on its motorized lift system on call. Right underneath is the living area featuring an L-shaped sofa with a folding table. When you are out camping with a couple of friends, the sofa backrests can slide down flat to give you an additional bed.
The fascinating part of the living space is the modularity it exhibits in that, you can shift the seating front and back on its tracks to create a garage space in the rear for your bike. The access is through the tailgate and interestingly, despite this readjustment, the living space remains functional.
Coming to the culinary requirements: the kitchen is designed to slide out of the body into a full-fledged option on the road. It comes equipped with a wooden prep area, a 2 burner gas stove, foldable sink, drawers for storage, microwave oven and a portable fridge. While on the outside, there are a few more fascinations for the gear junkies. You have, on the driver’s side, mounts for kayaks and other items, and a 510-liter storage section, which hides behind it the batteries, propane tank and a spare tire. With all the features mentioned, SylvanSport has priced the Vast travel trailer at $49,995.
Arguably, the traditional image of camping and outdoor exploration is in a relay of evolution, and Georgia-based ROC Trailers is sharing the baton. To that accord, the outdoorsy company has launched its new ALD09 trailer. This innovative camping trailer isn’t just another addition to the market; it represents a leap in eco-friendly, electric vehicle-compatible camping.
Bucking the trend of conventional trailers, the ALD09 replaces old aluminum-skinned wooden structures with an insulated fiberglass-composite design exuding a luxury yacht appearance. The choice of material, ROC shares, not only amplifies strength and durability but significantly reduces the trailer’s weight, facilitating a lighter footprint on outdoor expeditions.
Designer: ROC Trailers
Engineered particularly for rugged off-road escapades, the ALD09 boasts a robust steel frame construction, all-terrain tires with 16-inch steel wheels, and a 2000lb axle-less independent suspension granting an impressive 20-inch ground clearance. Such fortitude promises a journey through diverse terrains without compromising on stability or comfort.
Emphasized by its lighter construction, and a gross weight as low as 2,000 pounds (907 kg), the trailer is extremely flexible in how and with what sort of vehicle you choose to tow it. That said, the interior reflects a classic teardrop-style layout featuring a queen-size mattress, LED lighting, and USB ports. For added space, a shelf next to the foot of the bed transforms into a sleeping platform and is ideal for tucking in a child or a furry friend. This assortment expands the sleeper capacity, without the rooftop tent, which is an optional setting to increase the headroom and provide more ventilation.
The galley is where the trailer’s heart rests. Here, an efficient kitchen setup includes drawers, cabinets, and an optional sink. To address the challenge of limited space, ROC spreads equipment around, providing a tongue box with a fridge, and a side table ideal for holding a portable stove – all integrated into a flat, tailgate you can flip-open for a satisfying culinary experience on the road.
To make the ALD09 ready for elongated stays in the wilderness, its kitchen is equipped with a 57-liter water tank. The trailer can be retrofitted with a 100-watt solar panel and a 10A Voyager solar controller if required. Starting at a modest $16,999 without the add-ons; if you factor in its lightweight construction and spacious interior, the ROC ALD09 is a modern trailer with environmental responsibility at the back of its mind.
Camping enthusiasts who have been taking their electric pickups for day outs with the family will draw enthusiasm from the Camp365 Model T camper – truck bed collapsible camper. Tailor-made for the modern family that wants to explore nature without sacrificing comfort, the pickup camper brings together the convenience of electric vehicles and the joy of camping in one sleek package.
The lightweight, collapsible camper that seamlessly fits into your electric pickup truck, providing you with a slim, eco-friendly ride is what Camp365’s Model T is all about. This 4-foot-wide pod effortlessly slots between the bed walls of a truck bed, to become a prism-shaped structure with wings spread out to comfortably accommodate a family of five.
Designer: Camp365
The Model T isn’t your typical tent – soft walls feature a dual-layer construction, keeping you cozy in any weather. With 63 square feet of floor space, it can comfortably sleep up to four adults and a child, thanks to its modular bedding system. Choose between a queen-sized bed, a twin bed, or a pair of single bunk beds, all designed for a restful night’s sleep. Alongside you’ll get a workstation, bathroom, and a slide-out dual-induction cooker kitchen, ensuring that you have all the comforts of home while living in the truck bed.
This spacious pickup camper measures 7.3 feet in length and it has 6.7 feet of headroom and ample space to move around and relax. The underfloor cubbies and hanging shelves keep your space organized, while two side awnings enhance the camper’s functionality. Model T’s modular floor plan allows campers to customize their space for different trips, whether it’s a solo overnight adventure or a family vacation, in just 10 to 15 minutes.
While the Model T is currently under development, it’s expected to weigh between 700 and 800 pounds, making it suitable for midsize or small trucks. When it comes to bathroom amenities, the Model T offers a portable toilet, a stowable sink that connects fresh water tank, and an indoor/outdoor shower system hooked up to a 12-V water heater.
Camp365 has also considered the adventurer’s gear, with the Model T designed to carry items like bicycles and kayaks using compatible racks. Plus, it features hanging points for setting up hammocks outside, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in nature. If it sounds interesting, stay tuned for the arrival of this groundbreaking camper, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure with family in your electric pickup.
Storyteller Overland has long been reckoned for its unwavering commitment to designing all-terrain camper vans that can tackle the wildest of terrains. The Alabama-based company is now taking a leap into uncharted territory in partnership with its latest acquisition, the Global Expedition Vehicles. The result is a mesmerizing off-grid heavy-duty camper truck dubbed the GXV Hilt.
It is a camper designed to take you deeper into the wild than you’ve ever ventured before, all while providing a level of comfort and confidence that feels almost surreal. The Hilt is not any average off-road vehicle; it’s a game-changer with a hydraulic smart suspension system, carbon fiber and Kevlar body, and an energy system to keep you away in the wild for much longer.
Designer: Storyteller Overland
The Hilt comes with a smart hydraulic suspension by LiquidSpring, which ensures that no matter how treacherous the terrain, your journey remains smooth and controlled. But what actually makes the Hilt stand out is its construction. Made from a vacuum-infused resin composite with carbon fiber and Kevlar, this off-road camper truck is made to withstand the harshest of conditions.
Powering this beast is a 6.7-liter diesel-powered Ram 5500 chassis that provides the backbone for all off-grid exploration. And for those moments when you need a little extra muscle, a 20,000 lb winch stands ready for self-recovery. But Hilt is not a wild maniac alone; it has its own commitment to sustainability. To that accord, it comes with a 1325W solar power system with two 3000W inverters and a 16.8 kWh lithium-ion battery to let you live in the wild for longer without compromise. All the essential electric systems are monitored and controlled by a touchscreen unit onboard.
Robust on the outside, the Hilt transports you into a spa-like oasis as you step inside. The interior of the Hilt is a fusion of modern, sustainable materials and has surfaces that elevate your living experience. The custom rear racks and storage system ensure that you have ample space to stow your gear, while the dinette cum living area comfortably seats four to five adults on an L-shaped sofa that quickly converts into a queen bed when needed.
The sitting area can be utilized for eating home-cooked meals, playing card games, or lounging in comfort after a day filled with adventures. With a stainless steel convection oven, microwave, air fryer, dual burner induction cooktop, countertop with large sink, and a built-in water purification system, the kitchen alongside is micro-sized but immensely equipped. The Hilt doesn’t hold back on comforts in the bathroom department either. The generously sized wet bath offers 120 gallons of freshwater tank, a shower, flushable cassette toilet, mirror, and a sink.
However, when it’s time to retire for the night, you will have to climb a short ladder to the loft with a queen bed awaiting your arrival. The space is outfitted with power outlets and a wireless charging station next to the mattress, while natural light from the skylight and side windows fills the area with warmth. If the commitment to functionality and toughness on the road has got you inclined toward the GVX Hilt, you may want to act instantly. The off-grid camper truck is currently selling for a strictly limited price of roughly $400,000, but this is not the final retail price.
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. And I do think Camping is a plausible plan! There’s nothing more comforting or exciting than lounging about in a cozy camper while you explore the countryside. You never feel out of place, because these little campers 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 camper designs today are super innovative and inventive! From a VW ID Buzz electric camper to a Toyota Hilux camper that is the most rugged two-bed, pop-up roof overland rig you’ll ever ride – these resourceful campers manage to cater to almost all of our needs, solving various problems, and turning our camping experience into a fulfilling and comfortable one.
1. X-Cabin 300
Designed by Japanese startup X Cabin, the X-Cabin 300 is a lightweight, all-aluminum camping trailer intended to transform and redefine your outdoor escapades with an innovative sleek design and high-efficiency features.
Why is it noteworthy?
At first glance, the X-Cabin 300 catches the eye with its glistening riveted aluminum exterior and classic rounded corners, reminiscent of the Airstream trailers. The X-Cabin 300 takes a different route with a plain, boxier design featuring a high-efficiency floor plan that optimizes every inch of space.
What we like
Showcases a solid foundation with its steel chassis crafted by the renowned German manufacturer AL-KO
What we dislike
2. The Citroën Type Holidays
The Citroën Type Holidays is an ode to the iconic Type H which pushed the boundaries of alternative travel. The masterpiece is based on the versatile Citroën SpaceTourer, and it provides the utmost comfort and clever features that would be appreciated by all travelers.
Why is it noteworthy?
It sports a retro exterior and interior that are sure to turn heads. The Type Holidays teaser showcases a blend of heritage and modernity with its unique grey color, a nod to the Type H.
What we like
The two-row bench converts into a bed at night, and can also be removed to create storage space. The camper has smart space-saving features
What we dislike
The amenities are pretty basic, and some people may want more
3. The Earth Camper
The Earth Camper is designed by ARB to accompany adventurers with their nomadic lives, and adventurous off-road expeditions. The camper features long-travel independent suspension, and all-terrain tires, allowing it to deal with all terrains.
Why is it noteworthy?
The gray gel-coated fiberglass-reinforced plastic shell of the Earth Camper, inside a one-piece exoskeleton shell, ensures durability and longevity, while 25 mm thick walls offer exceptional temperature and noise control.
What we like
Features 120W roof-mounted solar panels
Fully equipped to meet all your off-grid requirements
What we dislike
Hefty price tag
Limited availability, since it’s only available in Australia at the moment
4. The Habiton
The Habiton is a mini camper that is a lifestyle companion for singles and couples who want to adopt a life on the go. It features a sleek design and modular concept that provides the comfy feeling of being at home.
Why is it noteworthy?
At the heart of the Habiton allure is its commitment to the “Travel small, live large” philosophy of Bürstner. This micro camper features an inflatable roof tent, seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s silhouette, adding a touch of whimsy and practicality.
What we like
It can effortlessly slide into multi-story car parks
Clever utilization of space
What we dislike
Being situated above the vehicle, it may be difficult for older people to enter/exit the camper.
5. Love Campers VW ID. Buzz Camper Van
The Love Campers VW ID. Buzz camper van was the result of a collaboration between Love Campers and Wild Drive. The drool-worthy automotive can be rented in the UK and is a fun and quirky-looking camper outfitted with a lime yellow and bright white dual-tone exterior, and matching interior. Stepping into it feels like you’re in a literal work of art!
Why is it noteworthy?
The interior of the VW ID. Buzz is designed to maximize space. The sofa slides out to transform into a snug double bed, and the kitchen area – bang opposite – includes a sink with a foldaway faucet and an induction hob.
What we like
Sustainable design perfect for couples or solo travelers
Outfitted with a 77KwH battery and rooftop solar panel to take care of the power needs of the electronics onboard
What we dislike
It only has a portable toilet, which is not a comfortable option for everyone
6. The GMC Hummer EV EarthCruiser Upfit
EarthCruiser and Hummer have teamed up to create the GMC Hummer EV EarthCruiser Upfit. It combines the raw power of an all-electric Hummer pickup with the comfort of an EarthCruiser truck camper!
Why is it noteworthy?
Stepping into this unique camper you get 80 inches of headroom space at the entry and 76 inches as you walk into the hallway. This space trims down to 35 inches in the bed section. However, you get a tri-layered pop-up roof, creating a feeling of spaciousness to maintain a comfortable atmosphere within.
What we like
Features a 650W solar system that keeps the adventure going by recharging the 460Ah lithium 12V battery on board
Equipped with a convenient flat-pack toilet
What we dislike
There don’t seem to be any options for customization
It isn’t available until 2024 so we don’t have first-hand experience with it
7. BCR Off-Road Camper
Called the BCR off-road camper, this build by Truckhouse features the Prospector XL RA 3500 chassis from the AEV. It is a commendable collaboration between the Truckhouse and AEV and is intended to be a full-featured carbon fiber hardshell camper.
Why is it noteworthy?
The new BCR exterior is designed to leverage the ruggedness of the Prospector XL and boasts 40-inch tires, a snorkel, a 20,000-pound winch in front, and a 3-inch lift that not only enhances the camper’s off-road capabilities but also contributes to its overall four-season appeal.
What we like
Equipped with large skylight and windows to provide access to the lovely views on the way
Features solar panels to support an off-grid lifestyle
What we dislike
The first deliveries are expected in Spring 2024, so we don’t have first-hand experience with it.
8. Tune M1
This lightweight and adventure-ready camper is called the Tune M1, and it features utmost comfort and versatility. It is intended to take you anywhere in the day while offering you complete rest within the truck’s pop-top canopy extension by night.
Why is it noteworthy?
The lightweight truck camper, starting at just 360 lbs, allows the cabin to be used for sleeping, cooking, remote working, or even for toy hauling when you’re venturing out for a ski, fishing, or snowboarding adventure.
What we like
Features a sleeping loft, while the pop-up roof (up to 6ft 10-in of interior headroom) allows you to stand in the living area effortlessly
What we dislike
The expanded cloth structure may not be protective enough in case of bad weather
9. The Romotow
The Romotow is truly a one-of-a-kind trailer with a fixed chassis that supports a rotated closing living unit. It can swivel around the full 90 degrees to provide extra outdoor living space!
Why is it noteworthy?
In transit, the 30.5ft Romotow remains closed and when it’s stationed for overnight camping, the main living unit with panoramic glass windows on both sides can swivel open: this form factor creates two sections, a large deck, and a sleeping/living cabin.
What we like
Features a 395W solar panel on the roof supporting an off-grid lifestyle
What we dislike
The trailer needs to rotate a complete 90 degrees, and that free space may not always be available
10. The BR75
This SUV adventure camper is called the BR75, and it is a Toyota Hilux that has been converted into a comfortable and innovative camper for four people. Since the Toyota Hilus is a robust and mobile vehicle, it makes for a rugged and tough camper.
Why is it noteworthy?
A camper module is attached to the back of the Hilux, creating an all-terrain overland rig that keeps you cozy and comfortable no matter where you travel! The Japanese SUV Adventure Camper BR75 doesn’t compromise on the mechanics or the form factor of the five-seat pickup.
What we like
Equipped with seats and a folding table, which can transform into a double bed on demand
Comes with an optional pop-up roof
What we dislike
There is no reference to a toilet onboard, you’d probably have to carry a portable seat along
I am one of those who seeks refuge in the tranquility of the great outdoors. While camping trailers have become my trusty companions on journeys to the untrodden trails, there were a few I have on the list of favorites. But with the release of Freeda camping trailer by Blackcamp that stands out as a small space miracle, I have a different thought now. This self-sufficient and compact caravan defies all my expectations!
Blackcamp’s Freeda, the smallest gem in the brand’s camping trailer lineup, is a marvel of modern design. Meant to tag behind all – small and large towing vehicles – the diminutive wonder with pop-up roof is perfect for weekend getaways and extended holidays at the same time, making it a versatile choice for adventurers of all stripes.
Designer: Blackcamp
At first glance, the cozy home on wheels captivates with its elegant design and aluminum and steel construction. It’s a harmonious blend of style and practicality, where its hard-shell roof tent, perched gracefully on top of the trailer, adds to the space and room inside the camper. This rooftop tent pops up into a scenic upstairs bedroom with a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape through the generous windows all around.
Blackcamp thoughtfully designed this space to accommodate up to four people, ensuring that no one misses out on the breathtaking views. The Freeda rides on a two-axle trailer with AL-KO suspension, while the trailer’s tailgate area can house two to four bikes securely during transit. Accessing your gear is a breeze with two large doors, one on the side and one at the rear of the trailer.
Just adjacent to the storage area, upfront, the pullout kitchen is a treasure trove for foodies featuring a two-burner gas hob to whip up gourmet meals in the heart of nature. In addition to satisfying your taste buds while you savor the great outdoors, the generous 63-L fridge, a hot and cold-water washbasin, and a pull-out shelf with ample storage adds to the convenience. The camping trailer offers a world of possibilities, and Blackcamp recognizes that adventurers come in all shapes and sizes. For this, the Freeda with 95 Ah gel battery is available in a range of customization options starting at €23,900 (approx. $25,500).
