Folding Camping Trailer

One of the lowest priced RVs is the folding or pop-up trailer, a great little get-away camper for as little as $6,000. It combines the experience of open-air tent camping with sleeping comforts, basic conveniences and weather protection found in other RVs. Weighing between 1,500 and 3,500 lbs., even some cars are able to pull a pop-up trailer.

Compact size, light weight and aerodynamic, low profile make a pop-up easy to tow and easy to park in the campground. Then, that little 12-foot-long and 4-feet-high trailer cleverly expands into a practical and functional tent with a hard floor, built-in amenities and cushioned bed. Some may have a shower, toilet, sink, kitchen features, dining table, heat and even air conditioning. Maximum expanded length is about 25 feet, with a comfortable interior height of up to 8 feet.

A big advantage of folding pop-up trailers is their low center of gravity and compact size while towing, meaning they are easier to take into remote areas that may be inaccessible to larger trailers or motorhomes.

A new trend is a hard-sided convertible trailer that looks and tows like a pop-up, but features hard sides that slide into position when expanded, creating a rig that becomes more like a travel trailer while camping.

• Usually 15 to 25 feet long (when opened)
• Sleep up to eight people
• Typically cost $6,000 to $19,000 new