LG has been a force to reckon with at CES 2024. Especially with the amazing set of TVs it has brought to Vegas. This includes the show-stopper 77-inch wireless, transparent OLED TV that lets you use it as a décor item you can peep beyond, when you’re not enjoying your regular dose of entertainment on it.
Of course, new speakers, TVs and other forms of consumer tech are expected from the South Korean tech company. What is really not a given is a micro-housing solution for adventurers. But that’s what LG Labs, the company’s marketing division for innovative products – has on exhibit at CES in the form of 2024 Bon Voyage camping trailer.
Designer: LG Labs
The Bon Voyage trailer is, frankly then, LG’s foray into designing intelligent life solutions for the masses. This trailer is based on the bigger tiny living solution – with the same name – released back at the Wanderlust Korea 2023. It was a duplex home built with 20sq meter of living space comprising diagonal corridors and ergonomic stairs.
The idea behind creation of the Bon Voyage was to understand the trends in housing culture and to gauge what people wanted. Through the received feedback, LG Labs has now scaled down the Bon Voyage – showing off at CES – into the size of the towable trailer which can be trailed behind your electric vehicle.
Designed as a cozy personal space on the road, the new Bon Voyage trailer is 7 feet high, 6.6 feet wide, and over 12 feet long. In this little space, LG has managed to stuff a range of furniture, storage, and a bed. It makes the living space well-lighted with the use of large glass windows and a side entry.
The basic construction is done with the use of low-carbon steel materials presumably, and it features a flatter roof for limited headspace. With the sleeping space tucked toward the front, the tailgate has a functional kitchen stocked up with an electric stove, water purifier, and refrigerator. From how things appear, there is no bathroom, but we would like to believe LG has a portable toilet and a section for bathing within. The battery-powered Bon Voyage trailer doesn’t have a price or availability going its way at the time of writing, but the battery-powered camping solution, should be apt for off-grid tours with an option solar panel set-up.
A Canadian cyclist has designed and developed an e-bike trailer that he calls the Cyberdrop. Inspired by the angular design of the Tesla Cybertruck, the trailer, to tow behind an electric bike, is everything a Cybertruck isn’t. Like the Cybertruck is designed to make pickup camping a breeze, the Cyberdrop, still a prototype, will make bike-packing a comfortable journey and effortless activity when it is available for production.
When you venture out into the great outdoors on a bike, you tag along your camping tent. Everything is fine until you install and uninstall the canvas and pitch it again without fail, night after night. The Cyberdrop hitches up an interesting contraption behind your bike to save you the setup and repacking woes, instead giving you a permanent structure with basic amenities so no matter where the day takes you, you have a comfortable place to stretch your legs and rewind for the next day’s adventure.
Designer: Cyberdrop
Given the fact that bike packing is a huge industry, there is insignificant attention paid to making adventures with an e-bike comforting in comparison to a car or pickup. One reason that comes to mind could probably be the kind of energy a bike and rider must generate to get the towing trailer going.
Cyberdrop is not just about its look and Cybertruck inspiration. It’s a camping solution that has been thoroughly thought out even to a position where the bike’s two motors are further assisted for power by the third one installed on the wheel hub of the Cyberdrop. So, you can decide how much or how little to pedal while negotiating moderate hills or gunning for the bigger climbs. The motors, onboard electricals, cabin lights, and vent fan are powered by a built-in 9.5-kW lithium battery or the rooftop solar panel option.
For stability and compactness, the Cyberdrop features an aluminum frame, covered with neoprene to avert condensation, and a good 8 feet of living space. The bed stretches most of the construction, which includes nifty storage spaces, and height enough to allow a user to sit, change clothes, or cook comfortably. On the roll, the Cyberdrop offers a 130-mile range and is likely to retail for approximately $6,500.
Dire situations bring out the best in humans. And war-torn Ukraine has been a reason for many lifesaving inventions that are not only helping here but also opening new avenues in places where the need may arise. One such creation is the Life Chariot: a lightweight offroad trailer for combat rescue and evacuation. Designed without typical emergency lighting and anything like the MEDEVAC vehicles, we usually see in evacuation missions, the rescue trailer is inspired by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its growing demand for healthcare and evacuation vehicles.
This Life Chariot is developed by Polish industrial designer, Piotr Tluszcz, who, recognizing the hardships of Ukrainian medics (trying to rescue lives from the war-shattered areas), wanted to build an all-terrain solution to help them with their evacuation missions. The Life Chariot is therefore made lightweight and comes with Da Orffo off-road suspension to make it easier and safer to rescue the wounded than in the truck, which the Ukrainian medics do at the moment.
Designer: Lodz Design
Given its novel, steel skeleton design and off-road suspension, this MEDEVAC-like trailer provides a convenient and smooth ride for the patient onboard. For this, the Life Chariot comes with an adjustable hitch to tow behind a capable vehicle and features a removable stretcher to accommodate one wounded person and two medics on either side, sitting stable on strapped seats with medical equipment overhead for easy access.
Riding smoothly over any terrain, the trailer helps medical evacuation teams in conflict zones and other challenging environments to help them carry out rescues briskly and with the least danger to any parties. When the injured person in need of medical assistance is strapped up to the stretcher, the medics can hop onboard and cover the protective steel skeleton body of the trailer with a fireproof tarpaulin and allow the stretcher into its stipulated mount through the side or rear.
The trailer, which is more like a steel-caged contraption at first sight, also has an additional stretcher mount on the supposed roof. Two such Life Chariots have already been handed to the Ukrainian military and one to a voluntary Polish medic unit for testing. The Life Chariot was recently awarded the James Dyson Humanitarian Award. The designer is looking to utilize the prize money and the feedback from Ukrainian and Polish units for the betterment of the rescue trailer.
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.
In a captivating unison of innovation and style, reckoned Japanese RV maker, Kworks, has joined forces with Japanese home goods manufacturer Lixil, to birth the Mio Space trailer. This architecturally fascinating trailer rethinks the concept of furnished camping trailers and presents owners with a blank canvas they can furnish to their willingness.
To that accord, Mio Space trailer is a statement of adaptability. Kworks offers it for two possibilities, either it can be used for camping or seamlessly placed to extend the boundaries of your home. As an adaptable trailer, it can thus cater to every day of the year (in your backyard or in the wilderness), with a fascinating design that blurs the line between nature and modern architecture.
Designer: Kworks and Lixil
To start out, the Mio Space trailer captivates with its expansive windows that beckon natural light, complemented by the warm embrace of wooden paneling on the inside and out. The strategic placement of wooden slats from top to bottom not only adds a touch of allure to the interior, it also offers functional spaces to hang furniture, imbuing the trailer with a distinct flexibility.
Arriving in a noticeable rectangular structure, the Mio Space trailer has subtle rounded edges to distinguish its looks. Step inside, and the vast emptiness of the space strikes at first glance. However, Kworks asserts that this deliberate openness embodies a ‘flexible design’ ethos. It allows owners the freedom to shape the space as they desire: whether as a camper’s nest or an additional room that complements one’s home.
While the onus of furnishing the Mio Space trailer falls on its future owners, the clever positioning of slats creates opportunities for storage and a possible kitchen area to make the trailer into a desirable mobile home. If you may, you can pre-order the Mio Space starting summer of 2024. Even though Kworks has kept the features and pricing under wraps for now, we learn Mio Space sales will be confined to Japan, at least initially.
Imagine a travel trailer that’s truly accessible and comfortable for everyone, designed with both beauty and strength in mind. Sunnyvale, California-based Pebble has made this vision a reality with its innovative creation, the Pebble Flow. This travel trailer redefines the RV lifestyle, offering unmatched aerodynamics, eco-friendliness, and technological intricacies not seen before.
Pebble Flow is a stark departure from the ordinary travel trailer; it’s 300 percent more aerodynamic as instead of conforming to the regular rectangular shape, Pebble Flow boasts a flowy and curvy design, akin to a car’s construction. This enhances its aesthetics, provides for a longer towing range, and a safer experience on the road.
Designer: Pebble
Pebble Flow is built using a rigorous automotive manufacturing process, featuring a space-grade aluminum frame construction. The use of lightweight composite and sustainable materials ensures durability and eco-friendliness, making it a trailer build to last.
This robust trailer takes convenience to the next level with its magic hatch, which allows it to sight, align, and hitch itself autonomously. More excitingly, the Pebble App allows the travel trailer to be reversed, parked, or even turned 360 degrees in place, exactly as you desire, without being connected to a tow vehicle.
Pebble Flow runs on solar power generated from its 1kW solar panels, while the onboard 45 kWh LFP battery takes care of the power needs of the appliances so that the trailer can remain off the grid for up to seven days with ease. The travel trailer is even equipped with a 240V AC output that permits it to charge an electric vehicle or another RV, and the regenerative braking system permits the trailer to charge itself while being towed.
The trailer takes automation to the next level with a simple touch mechanism. It can deploy at the camp by unfolding the stairs, turning on the lights, and pitching the awning, and much more at the push of a button. And even fold back up in the same manner when you are ready to move to a new location. All for a starting price of $109,000.
The innovation continues on the inside of the Pebble Flow, which is packed with comfort and versatility. Its panoramic windows offer a breathtaking 270-degree view, and the convertible furniture and clever storage make the most of the available space. The trailer comfortably sleeps four people, with a queen-sized Murphy bed in the rear that converts into an office desk, and a dinette that transforms into a bed when you need it.
The kitchen comes prepped with a removable induction cooktop that can be taken to the outdoors. To keep the inhabitants comfortable indoors, the trailer is provided with a spa-like bathroom and is equipped with a 37-gallon fresh water tank and a combined 50-gallon grey and black tank to cater to extended trips.
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).
