A is for Adventure

The adventurist is a new breed of RVer, or maybe it is an old breed that is making a come-back. The adventurist isn't looking for five tons of home-like luxury, they want to travel light, to be able to pick up and go on a whim! These travelers have a bucket list, and they aren't waiting for old age to start marking items off. Some are after thrills; mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, rock-climbing, you name it and they'll try it. Others simply want to see as much of our great nation as they can. Why stay in one place when there are so many new things to discover?

The rise in adventure camping accounts for the sudden demand for small, lightweight campers. Sales of pop-ups, teardrop trailers and ultra lights have all risen sharply. Technology has advanced these small campers, making them more efficient, more comfortable, and more roomy than they have ever been before. In particular, the A-frame camper has really stepped up its game in recent years, and with outstanding results. If you relate to the adventurous style of camping, an A-frame may be a good option for you.

What is the Difference Between a Tent Camper and A-Frame

The A-frame and tent camper are both classified as pop-ups, but also known as a fold-downs (maybe this is a glass half full/empty thing?). Both are lighter than most traditional travel trailers, and fold down to a compact height. So what is the difference?

A tent camper is what most people think of when they think of a popup, the roof pops up to reveal canvas walls and bunk-ends. An A-frame on the other hand, has hard walls that, when not in use, unlatch and fold down on themselves. An a-frame and tent camper look almost identical when folded down, but the A-frame has a classic triangle (A-frame!) shape when popped up.

Why are Folding Campers so Popular?

Popup campers, like other small RV options, have taken off in popularity, but what makes these somewhat old-fashioned campers such a favorite among new adventurists? Most likely because they do so well at providing the benefits of other types of campers, in a package that is extremely easy to tow.

Compact Towing

Even though your popup camper has considerable room, it has the benefit of folding down to a compact, lightweight package that can be towed by most light SUV's, minivans, and even by many cars. Popup campers can also be stored in many garages, eliminating the need for a monthly storage bill when not in use.

Super Easy Set-up

Pop-ups are easier than ever to set up with many offering electric-lift roofs that raise with the click of a switch. Advances in materials make the rest of the setup process go so quick and easy, with newer styles of bed-supports that make sliding the bunk-ends out quick and easy. A-frames are also easy to set up, with strut- or electric-assisted raising mechanisms. Most modern popups can be set up by an experienced camper in about 15 minutes.

Versatile Floor Plans

Popups used to have a very limited number of floor plans. You wouldn't find a shower in one, and there was very little floor space. Now one of the best-selling popups has a dinette slide that has lots of room, and many come with shower/wet-bath options.

The Big Decision

Whether you are deciding IF you want a popup, or on WHICH one you want, the same basic principals should apply to your decision making process. First, do your research. There are plenty of forums online where people talk about their RV experiences. Find out what people like and don't like, which amenities you should look for, and what brands have a good reputation. Then, spend some time in the camper you are thinking about purchasing. The very best scenario is to borrow or rent one identical to what you are thinking of buying, but that isn't always an option. The second best option is to spend as much time as you can at the dealership in your new camper. Lay in the bed, bend over the sink as though you are washing dishes (is it the right height for your back?), imagine the supplies you will bring with you and figure out where you are going to store them. Tell the salesperson to leave you alone in the RV so you have time to truly think about whether this is the right one for you. A good salesperson (we have all the best ones here at Camperland) wants you to have exactly what is right for you.

I hope this helps with some of your popup campers questions. Whatever RV you decide is right for you... Happy camping!