Pop up campers, also known as tent trailers or folding campers, have revolutionized camping for many enthusiasts. But how exactly does a tent trailer work? Let’s take a look.
The Basics of the Pop Up Tent Trailer
In simple words, a pop up tent trailer is a folding camper that can be compacted for an easier transport and storage, and then expanded or “popped up” to create a comfortable living space when it’s time to camp.
The ability to compact and expand is what distinguishes it from other types of trailers.
Mechanics of Pop Up Camping Trailer
When you look at a compressed pop up camping trailer, you’ll see a low-profile trailer box. But once you make it to your camping site, with the help of a few cranks or sometimes even a hydraulic system, the roof can be lifted, and the sides can be pulled out.
When you do this, you find yourself in front of big tent-like compartments as opposed to a small trailer box. This is a great reason why pop up campers are a normal go-to choice for families and groups.
The Advantages | Summary Version
Okay, it’s a box that when enlarged creates rooms where people can stay or sleep. So what? Well, that’s not the only advantage of a trailer tent.
Space-Saving: When folded down, the small size of the tent trailers reduces drag, making them more fuel-efficient to tow than many other types of trailers. Also, their small compact size when they are collapsed means they take up less storage space when you’re not using them
Versatility: The tent sections are usually made of durable canvas or a similar material, which is great for ventilation and provides a feeling of being close to nature but protected from its adverse elements
Storage and Transportation: Some models even offer storage platforms or racks on which you can transport items like dirt bikes
Affordability: Generally, tent trailers are less expensive than traditional RVs or hard-sided trailers, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious campers
The Rise of Folding Campers
In our opinion, the evolution and rising popularity of folding campers is due to their convenience.
They offer the comfort of a bed off the ground, kitchen facilities, and sometimes even a bathroom – it all comes down to how creative you are.
In other words, you can get all the perks of a larger RV or trailer without the hefty price tag or the challenge of maneuvering a big vehicle.
The Advantages | Long Version
As we wrote above, camping trailers and tent campers have carved a unique niche for themselves and provide great advantages that other accessories don’t have. While we’ve talked briefly about those, we believe they are too important to skip – keep reading for the longer version of the folding campers’ advantages.
I. Enhanced Comfort
While in traditional tents you need to sleep on the ground (with maybe just a sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort), camping trailers elevate your sleeping quarters. So what you say? Well, if you’re new to camping, it’s useful to know that sleeping in an elevated position (versus the ground) not only give you a more comfortable night’s sleep but also provides protection from ground moisture, critters, and uneven terrains.
Trust us, you don’t want to sleep glued to the ground in a rocky terrain.
II. Portability and Convenience
One of the main benefits of tent campers is their portability.
Designed to be towed behind your vehicle, these units allow you to bring along a cozy shelter wherever you decide to go, as long as you can drive a car. Also, setting it up and breaking it down is often faster and easier than traditional tents.
III. Resistant
Tent pods and camping trailers offer a more sturdy and weather-resistant shelter compared to traditional tents. Whether you’re facing heavy rains, strong winds, or even light snow, these robust structures can provide you & your family better protection than a standard canvas tent.
IV. Multi-Functional
Apart from being a sleeping area, many tent campers come with additional amenities, such as cooking facilities, storage compartments, and sometimes even bathrooms. This multi-functionality makes them suitable for both short weekend getaways and extended trips.
Like we said above: your creativity is pretty much the limit when it comes to these!
V. A Balance Between Nature and Comfort
For those who love the idea of being close to nature but are not keen on fully roughing it, tent pods serve as an ideal middle ground. They provide an immersive outdoor experience without compromising on some of the basic comforts of home.
VI. Economical Alternative
While RVs and bigger trailers offer luxury, they also come with a high price tag. Tent campers are generally more affordable, making them an economical choice for those who enjoy road trips and outdoor adventures but don’t want spend several thousands.
Dealing With Hot Weather?
In places like Salt Lake City, where summers can get quite hot, the idea of camping might sound like a bad idea. But people still go for it and have a great time. How?
Well, with modern RVs, camping in hot weather has become much easier & comfortable than decades ago. Let’s check how.
AC in Tent Trailers – Yes, It’s Possible
Most basic tent trailers might not come with an AC unit as a standard feature, mainly because they don’t have the solid walls and insulation that traditional RVs have. However, as demand for comfort in the RV lifestyle increases, many manufacturers are now offering AC units as an optional upgrade for tent trailers.
However, comfort comes at a price: adding an AC unit to your tent trailer may be expensive. On other hand, it’s worth it. What should you decide? While we don’t know, as this decision depends entirely on your personal circumstances, we can tell you how adding an AC unit will help you. Check it out!
Why Get AC For Your Tent Trailer?
Climate Control: Whether you’re in the humid environments of the East Coast or the dry heat of places like Salt Lake City, having an AC to control the temperature inside your tent trailer will make your camping experience much more pleasant
Enhanced RV Lifestyle: Part of the appeal of recreational vehicles is the blend of outdoor adventure with indoor comforts. installing an AC ensures that you don’t have to compromise on comfort, even in a tent trailer
Increased Resale Value: While getting an AC will cost you more money, the truth is that trailers that are equipped with AC units often fetch a higher resale value. The reason is simple: the AC is an attractive feature for many people looking to embrace the RV lifestyle
The Cons Of Tent Trailers
In all of the article so far, besides of explaining how a tent trailer works, we’ve been talking of how great they are, so it’s time to play the devil’s advocate and give you some reasons why these are sometimes not chosen.
Cost: Trailer tents are generally more expensive than standard tents
Maintenance: As with any trailer, you cannot ignore maintenance (this includes caring for the tires, frame, and any onboard facilities) – not only this takes time but also costs you money
Storage Space: While they are compact, trailer tents still require more storage space at home than a traditional tent
Maneuverability: Driving with a trailer tent attached requires more skill, especially when reversing or navigating tight spaces
Weight: Trailer tents add considerable weight compared to packing a regular backpacking tent, meaning you’ll need a vehicle you can use to tow it
Setup Learning Curve: The first few times setting up a tent trailer can be difficult and time-consuming, though this usually improves with experience
Fuel Consumption: Towing a trailer tent will likely increase your vehicle’s fuel consumption due to the added weight and reduced aerodynamics (which will result in you spending more money)
Conclusion
We hope this article is useful in helping you understand how a tent trailer does work, but ultimately the decision of whether to buy and use one will come down to your personal preferences, how much money you are willing to spend and if you have access to a vehicle. If you’re a student who works part-time for your money, then we see little sense in thinking about buying a trailer tent. However, if you’re really into camping, have had enough of standard tents and want to try something new, then a pop up camper might be your best bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Replace or Upgrade The Canvas Walls of a Tent Trailer?
Yes, the canvas or fabric walls, also known as the “soft walls,” can be replaced if they get damaged or wear out. Many manufacturers and third-party companies offer replacement kits or custom fabric solutions that can also provide better insulation or UV protection. It all depends on how much you’re willing to spend.
How Do Tent Trailers Handle Condensation and Ventilation?
Tent trailers often use meshed windows or vented sections to ensure good airflow and to prevent any condensation build-up (by ensuring that fresh air circulates within the living space). We’ve noticed that some newer models also feature roof vents or fans to increase ventilation even more.
Are Tent Trailers OK For Cold-Weather Camping?
While tent trailers offer more protection than traditional tents, they are not as insulated as hard-sided campers. However, you can always bring thermal blanket and portable heaters with you.
How Does the Electrical System in a Tent Trailer Work?
Tent trailers normally have a dual electrical system: they can connect to external power sources at campgrounds via an external hookup, and also have an onboard battery system for off-grid camping. Newer models may also have provisions for solar panel connections.