If you're ready for life on the ride, here's how to choose the best pop up camper for your next adventure.
If you want the mobile RV lifestyle without all the hassle and expense or the camping experience without the lack of reliable shelter and running water, invest in a pop up camper!
Pop up is a catch-all name for several different kinds of camping trailers with a wide variety of construction types, floor plans, and features. Depending on the style and model you choose, your camper should be able to comfortably sleep two to six people. Some sport slide-out sections to extend sleeping and living space.
Most include hook-ups for electricity and water at your final destination, and some have a water tank on board.
Like RVs and motorhomes, you can opt for an affordable baseline pop up that will get the job done or drop a few more G's for all the bells and whistles. But don't let the MSRPs scare you away—you can probably find a used pop up or score a discontinued model at a sale price.
They are unlikely to require a fifth wheel, and can normally be towed with a typical hitch by a capable vehicle. They almost always weigh less than a larger camper trailer that doesn't pop up, meaning the range of vehicles that can haul them is larger.
Before you buy, understand your options.
Tent Trailers
Tent campers are great for breaking into the pop up world. They're typically lightweight and therefore on the most towable options, with a hard base and canvas tent walls on the sides. Most tent trailers have some storage space, sleeping areas, and the kitchen basics.
High Wall Campers
High wall campers feature taller base walls than tent trailers, making more room for features such as air conditioning and other appliances. They're also easier to set up than tent trailers but will weigh more.
A-Frame Trailers
These travel trailers have all solid walls, easily fold flat for towing, and resemble an A-frame home when set up. But the size and shape can limit living space and headroom.
Teardrop Camper Trailers
Typically compact and easy to transport for even a small tow vehicle, teardrop campers are fully enclosed with hard sides and a tapered shape. Some pop open for additional space and accessibility.
Hi-Lo Campers
Hi-Lo campers are hard-shelled and super durable with a telescopic hydraulic lift system for easy transportation. They usually have a dinette and more floor plan features than other pop up trailers.
As you consider that type you'll need for future camping trips, here are a few highly rated models to check out.
Sylvansport Go
This super lightweight tent trailer is incredible versatile and features an expandable awning for additional sleeping space.
Forest River Flagstaff T21 DMHW
This A-frame from Forest River RV is great for two travelers and features a toilet/shower combo. Campers also love the Forest River Rockwood for sleeping six.
Coachmen Clipper Sport
You can choose from 15 different floor plans on this spacious pop up - some options can even sleep seven.
If RVing seems appealing but you aren't ready or able to cough up that much money, then a pop up camper is the likeliest place to start.
NEXT: BEST CAMPING FOOD: IDEAS FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, AND DESSERT
