Tired of pitching a tent every time you go camping? But not ready to commit to a large RV? Then a pop-up camper might be just what you need!
A pop-up camper is not only the middle ground in terms of size, but also the most affordable of all camper types, including travel trailers and fifth wheels.
The best foldable pop-ups are those that can be easily towed in a mid-size car, minivan or SUV. They are lightweight and portable and can easily fit in your driveway or garage or even in your backyard. Their compact design makes them perfect for off-road use.
With all the optional features, you have some amenities just like home, such as kitchens, sitting areas, beds, and sometimes even toilets and showers.
However, with tent walls, you won’t have to sacrifice the feeling of sleeping under the stars. They are also a great option for newbie campers, as they are easy to tow.
What is a Pop Up Camper?
Pop up campers are compact and low profile motorhomes. They are usually towed by minivans or SUVs. Although the name may suggest it, they do not actually “pop up”. Instead, the fixed roof is raised with either a hydraulic jack or winch. Then you have to extend the telescoping metal bars and pull out the two-bed sliders by hand.
Since the walls of the tent trailer are made of vinyl or canvas, you are closer to nature than in an RV. You can spend time in nature and still have some amenities within reach.
With an outdoor tent, you are not cut off from all the great sounds of nature like you are in an RV. You get the full camping experience without having to sleep on the ground.
How much do pop-up trailers cost?
Like any other type of RV, pop-up campers can vary greatly in cost. For a new pop-up tent trailer, you can expect the average price to range from $8,000 to $25,000.
However, if you buy a used camper, you can lower the price significantly and find units with an average price of $2,000 to $10,000.
By and large, small pop-up campers won’t break the bank. You can either save up to buy one or take out a loan from a dealer to have an affordable monthly payment.
Which pop up camper is the best?
Let’s take a look at the 7 best pop up campers on the market today so you can decide which style best suits your wants and needs.
1. Sylvan Sport Go
MSRP: Starting at $10,995
The Sylvan Sport Go may look small, but it makes a big statement. The Sport Go is available with a base package and two additional add-on packages, depending on your needs.
Whether you’re taking this tent on an everyday adventure or going on an epic adventure, the Sylvan Sport Go has you covered. This camper may be compact, but the spacious, versatile design is comfortable and offers multiple dining and sleeping options.
Never worry about rain again, because this tent is elevated and waterproof, so you’re guaranteed to stay dry. You can easily tow it with almost any car or truck.
This camper contributes to fuel efficiency with its low profile and light weight. Made from high-quality materials, the tent is sturdy and durable and requires little maintenance. It is made in the USA as it is handcrafted in Brevard, NC.
The “Swiss Army Knife” of camping trailers, the Sylvan Sport Go can do it all and go anywhere. It’s been named by National Geographic Adventure as the “Coolest. Camper. Ever.”
2. Forest River Rockwood Freedom 2318G
MSRP: Starting at $19,999
If you’re looking for a pop-up camper, the Rockwood 2318G is for you. It comes with an optional shower and cassette toilet so you can stay out longer. While most pop-ups have two slide-out features, this floor plan has three.
Other standard features in this floorplan include wood plank floors, a hot water package, a three burner stove, an outdoor kitchen, USB charging ports, electric brakes, an 85″ wide body with two 80″ beds, and much more!
3. Forest River Rockwood Freedom A122S
MSRP: Starting at $22,740
This fixed frame pop-up camper converts into a sleek, towable camper. With the Rockwood A122S, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with this fantastic little camper. You have the tough sides of a traditional travel trailer, but you also have the portability of a pop-up camper that is easy and convenient to store.
This is the perfect RV for a beginner RV builder. You get the feel of an RV but in a tiny package.
Features include a water heater, water pump, kitchen with microwave and stove, optional port-a-potty, and shower.
You can even bring extra camping gear with you, as this model has convenient storage. It features an exterior storage area as well as an EZ Reach Storage Truck.
Pro Tip: If you like the look of this A-line motorhome, then you should check out the 10 best A-frame motorhomes with complete solutions.
4. Coachmen Clipper 107LS
MSRP: Starting at $19,900
Coachman’s Clipper line comes in four different styles: The Express, the LS, the Sport/Classic and the V-Trek. Each model offers a variety of size options and features.
These pop-up campers are fully customizable and include high-density cushions, a water pump, kitchen with stove and two burners, built-in shower, porta-potty, stove, refrigerator and water heater, to name a few of the available features.
The Coachmen Clipper 107LS is a great RV to enter the world of pop-up trailers.
This trailer has a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,938 and a cargo capacity of 1,137, which means you can carry a whole lot of stuff! We all know that newbies always pack too much.
5th Opus OP4 Off Road Pop Up Camper
MSRP: Starting at $25,000
The rugged and durable Opus OP4 Off-Road Pop-Up Camper can go anywhere you want. The upgraded off-road tires and suspension, along with the independent coil suspension, make off-roading with this trailer not only possible, but a pleasure.
Thanks to the innovative AIR-inflated technology, the tent inflates itself in about 90 seconds. All you have to do is open and secure the bed ends, then flip the switch to inflate. Thanks to AIR-inflated technology, you have more space inside with 8′ ceiling height.
6th Turtleback Trailer Adventure Series
Don’t let the small size fool you, the Turtleback Adventure Series has plenty of room for family, pets and all your camping gear with nearly 200 square feet of enclosable living space.
The tent is huge, easy to pitch and comes with a queen-size mattress and tent-side storage. It’s perfect for those who want to stay closer to the ground.
Because this trailer is so lightweight, it can easily be towed behind most small SUVs. The high ground clearance also makes it great for those who want to be on the road.
It is easily customizable with modular additions such as a sink, water tank and pump, refrigerator, solar panel, and electrical systems. It was purchased by Joshua Costner in May 2023, and production was moved to Nashville, Tennesse.
7th Trail Manor Series 2518
MSRP: Starting at $39,900
This pop-up trailer lives up to its name! When you choose this unique Trail Manor 2518 series trailer, you can definitely say you’re living in a mansion. And the best part? When closed, this trailer fits in any standard garage.
This hard-sided pop-up trailer is your best choice for comfortable camping and a large interior space. It comes in three different floor plan options. You can have a king size bed with a double bed (shown below), a king size bed with a sofa bed, or a king size bed with a dinette.
Standard features on the Trail Manor include two 20-gallon propane tanks, alloy wheels, a spare tire, an outside shower, independent suspension, a steel frame, laminate flooring, a metal underbody, a 20-gallon fresh water tank, and much more!
Take to the great outdoors with a Pop Up
Pop up RVs are a great way for campers to get out in the great outdoors. Renting a pop up before investing in one of your own will give you an idea of what you want and need from a camper.
It’s also a great alternative for tent campers who want to switch to a tent, but don’t want the financial burden and upkeep of an RV. It can easily be towed by a vehicle you probably already own. They are so compact that they can easily be stored in a garage or even in your driveway or backyard. Pop ups allow you to enhance your camping experience without breaking the bank.
Whether your next adventure is a weekend trip or a week-long staycation, pop up campers are the perfect choice for you. Pop ups can go anywhere larger RVs can’t. You don’t even need a campground for these RVs. You can enjoy more secluded areas than with a full size camper or RV.