10 Best Pop Up Campers for Your Outdoor Escapes

If you’re a keen recreational camper, a pop up camper can be a great first camper for those who have very little RV experience.

Their ability to fold away makes them easy to store away and tow. Most tend to come with off-roading capabilities which means that you can take them just about anywhere.

Although pop up campers are on the smaller side, they tend to include some luxurious features which adds an essence of glam to your camping experience.

Check out our list for the best pop up campers available on the market, as well as our criteria for choosing the campers, general advice and frequently asked questions.

#1 Sylvansport Go

This is a super unique camper, and is probably one of the smallest on the list, weighing only 840 pounds.

It can sleep up to four people in a single bedroom, and with only two floor plans to choose from, it’s perfect for new campers searching for their first pop-up camper.

The Sylvansport Go is completely waterproof, and is able to withstand even the harshest of conditions. It also features insulating bed platforms that are great for colder temperatures.

There are also some optional features like self-inflating air mattresses, that will make setting up that much easier.

A lovely little feature is the stargazing windows and the awnings, which allow you to take in the breathtaking night sky as you fall asleep.

Although the Sylvansport Go isn’t the fanciest of pop up campers, it’s been coined the “Swiss Army Knife” of trailers, due to its ability to carry just about anything.

Whereas some camper trailers can only tow the pop up tent, Sylvansport Go owners can easily remove the tent to turn it into a versatile trailer attached to their car.

This is called “Utility Mode”, and a lot of customers have said that they’ve used it to carry bikes, or haul supplies back from a store.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 840 lbs
• Length: 11’11’’
• Width: 6’3”
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4 People

Key Features

• Super lightweight
• Aluminium frame
• Sleeps 2-4 people comfortably
• Utility mode for hauling
• 2 different floor plans to choose fork
• Tent is made from 220-denier ripstop nylon (3 times heavier duty than typical family tents)

Cons

• Bathroom not included
• Doesn’t come with a water tank

#2 Coachmen Clipper Sport

This pop up camper has something for everyone’s needs. If you’re someone who likes to have a few different options when choosing a pop up camper, the Clipper Sport has 16 different floor plans to choose from.

Coachmen invested a lot into the design of the Clipper Sport and it definitely shows. It’s incredibly easy to store and use, which means that it’s great for novice campers.

In addition, it’s incredibly easy to tow, as it has a streamlined and aerodynamic design when folded away.

Some of the bigger floorplans can sleep up to seven people, which is perfect for large families.

In addition to multiple insulated beds, the Clipper Sport comes with dark ash cabinets, resident laminated countertops, and LED lighting. These are uncommon features for a pop up camper, which is what gives the Clipper Sport a luxurious feel.

Both novice and experienced campers will enjoy the practical comfort and luxurious finishes of this pop up camper.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 2,396 lbs
• Length: 14’2”
• Width: 7’1”
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 7 people

Key Features

• King size insulated bunk at the front
• Queen size insulated bunk at the rear
• 23 gallon below-floor fresh water tank
• 16 gallon above-floor fresh water tank
• LED exterior and interior lights
• Option to add air conditioning (will cost extra)

Cons

• Bathroom is only included as an optional/additional package

#3 Forest River Rockwood

Forest River is one of the most reliable RV brands, so it’s no surprise that they’ve ended up on our list. The River Rockwood series is available in 15 different floor plans which can sleep up to six people.

For those of you who regularly go camping with your friends and family, the Forest River Rockwood series is definitely one to consider.

The sleek and spacious design is perfect for outings. For example, tinted vinyl windows and maple interior give this camper a touch of luxury.

You’ll also find USB charging ports amongst other modern offerings, like a three burner glass top stove and oven, microwave and toilet – the Rockwood series takes camping to another level.

You can also elect certain upgrades like a bike rack, air conditioning and a solar panel.

We would also like to stress the safety features that Forest River include in their designs, like carbon monoxide detectors and 12 volt safety breakers.

The Rockwood series also employs the use of an electric water pump, which is significantly more convenient that hand-pump models.

This camper is perfect for those who want to test the limits of mobile camping.

Specs

• Dry Weight: Up to 3,721 lbs
• Length: Between 17’1” to 20’10”
• Width: 7”
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6 people

Key Features

• Hot water package and outdoor shower
• Flush toilet
• 15 different floor plans to choose from
• Stainless steel appliances
• Glass stove top and oven

#4 Forest River Flagstaff

Once again, we are featuring another Forest River design. The Flagstaff is smaller than the Rockwell, but is a convenient pop up camper fitted with modern amenities.

Based off of the hard side models, it’s a simple design which manages to squeeze a toilet and shower inside. This particular model stood out the most as the design was simplistic, but allows users to make any adjustments they may need.

The Flagstaff is a unique pop up camper as it features hard-sided walls, which differs from other traditional fold down campers typically made from canvas.

Despite the seemingly simple design, the camper includes a fully-enclosed living area which features maple and linoleum interior. In addition, the kitchen contains stainless-steel appliances.

But we’re only getting started on the details. As well as USB charging ports, the Flagstaff comes with a Wi-Fi booster, and a Wi-Fi ranger.

But it doesn’t stop there, Forest River also provides satellite hookup and TV outlets for all their campers, so you can truly take camping to the next level.

The Flagstaff is considered a smaller pop up camper, but it will sleep 3 people comfortably.

Specs

• Dry Weight: Up to 2,700 lbs
• Length: Up to 20’10”
• Width: 7”
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 3 people

Key Features

• Flush toilet
• Hard wall toilet
• Interior floor lights
• USB charging ports
• Power roof lift
• Wi-Fi booster and range
• Modern kitchen features

Cons

• A little on the small side, so not suitable for large families or groups

#5 Jayco Jay Sport

The Jay Sport camper packs a pretty powerful punch in such a small unit.

The durable camper is designed to go just about anywhere, and buyers can rest assured as Jayco offers a five year warranty on bed platforms, tents, flooring, roofing, frames, and lift systems.

So, you can use the Jay Sport in even the harshest of conditions.

Although Jayco offers a warranty, the Jay Sport is built to withstand wear and tear, and can cope with being moved from campsite to campsite. They use a corrosion-resistant frame for the base, and the Jay Sport features a scratch-resistant finish.

The tent is also pretty impressive. Jayco uses a DuraTek tent, which is water-repellant, so it will keep you dry even during rainstorms.

Inside the camper you will find a cabinet toilet, as well as an acrylic sink and faucet. These appliances are pre-plumbed for propane.

Unfortunately, propane doesn’t come included with purchase, so we recommend you purchase a propane canister before using this camper.

The Jay Sport model also features an interior hookup for a freestanding TV, and an auxiliary jack, which makes entertainment accessible.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 1,895 lbs
• Length: Up to 15’6” whilst travelling, and up to 21’6” at campsite
• Width: 7’
• Sleep Capacity: Up to 5 people

Key Features

• 28 gallon water tank with demand water pump
• Four different floor plans to choose from
• Queen bed at the front, and full rear bed
• Flush toilet
• Water-repellent tent material
• 5 year warranty
• Interior hook up for TV

Cons

• Propane canister not included

#6 Air OPUS OP4

This Air Opus camper differs from most pop up camper builds. Instead of using a traditional cranking system and telescoping poles, the Air OPUS has its own air pole technology which means that you can set it up in under 5 minutes.

The air beam technology is extra durable, and is stronger than regular camper poles. They’re a lot lighter too, so you don’t have to worry about hauling around the extra weight.

As well as the simple setup process, the OP4 features double beds, leatherette seating and a fully-functional slide out kitchenette with a sink.

There’s no need to worry about the bathroom either, as this model comes with an internal portable toilet and an external shower.

Another selling point of the Air OPUS is that it comes with durable suspension, which utilizes heavy duty coil springs, dual shock absorbers, and off-road tires. So, you can use your OP4 just about anywhere, from campsites to mountain ranges.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 3,020 lbs
• Length: 18’4” when closed, 21’6” when open
• Width: 7’ when closed, up to 9’ when open
• Sleep Capacity: Up to 10 people with inflated annexe

Key Features

• Short assembly time
• Off-roading capabilities
• 2 double beds (one can convert to a king size)
• Inflatable annexe
• Pull out fridge
• Exterior lights
• Durable suspension
• Light to tow (can be towed by most standard SUVs)

#7 Turtleback Adventure Trail

If you’re in the market for a modestly sized pop up camper that can withstand even the harshest of conditions and off-road camping, then the Adventure Trail from Turtleback is perfect for you.

This is a completely customizable camper, and comes with a vast number of design options to fit your tastes. From a mini kitchen to an extra roof tent, you can create the perfect camper for your family and friends.

Fitted with all terrain wheels and tires, take the Turtleback Adventure trail just about anywhere. It’s also a pretty light camper, so your car won’t struggle when hauling it around. ,

Each Adventure Trail comes with a 2 burner stove, LED lighting system, guzzle water system and an external quick connect water port. The trailer also comes with an 11lb propane tank, so there’s no need to purchase one separately.

As noted, the Adventure Trail is fully customizable. Some standout upgrades include a refrigerator, solar panels, and inverters.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 1,160 lbs
• Length: 11’
• Width: 7’9”
• Sleep Capacity: 5+

Key Features

• Kitchen with 2 burner stove
• LED lighting
• 21 gallon water tank
• 200 square feet of living space
• Electric brakes
• Off-roading capabilities
• Sunroom

#8 Aliner Somerset Utah

The Aliner Somerset is definitely one of the top rated pop up campers on the market, and it’s not hard to see why. It features dozens of amenities which makes it stand out from its market competitors.

Its double walled galvanized steel side paneling, and the stainless steel lift system makes the Aliner Somerset a durable and well built camper. The frame is also considered much stronger than standard pop up campers as it’s more similar to a travel trailer.

Now, onto the fun stuff. The Somerset model features a 6 gallon water heater, 3-way interior refrigerator, 2 burner interior stove, and an outside grill. It also comes with it’s very own sound system, so you can either entertain or kick back and relax to your favorite tunes.

In addition, the 2020 model has an innovative solution to reduce water wastage. The Somerset Utah comes with a recirculating toilet, which uses the same amount of water at all times.

Not only is it effective in reducing bad odors, it’s also a more conservative use of the water in the main tank, which can be used for showering, washing up, and such.

Specs

• Dry Weight: Between 2,505 and 2,908 pounds.
• Length: 18’6”
• Width: 7’4”
• Sleep Capacity: Up to 8 people

Key Features

• Recirculating toilet
• Outside grill
• 2 burner stove
• 3-way refrigerator
• 6 gallon water heater
• Interior/exterior sound system
• Built in mosquito net

#9 Aliner Family Expedition

We have another Aliner model on the list, but this time we’re looking at the Family Expedition. If you’re in the market for a top of the range family camper, then look no further than the Aliner Family Expedition.

This is a hardside pop up camper which comes with some great features including a slide out kitchenette which has a stainless steel 2 burner stove and a 12V refrigerator. There’s also a spacious living area which doubles up as a sleeping area.

The indoor toilet is another great feature, and the recirculating technology reduces water waste.

It may be on the pricier side, but this Aliner model is definitely worth investing in if you’re big on family camping trips.

Specs

• Dry Weight: Under 2000 pounds
• Length: 18’
• Width: 7’
• Sleep Capacity: 4 people

Key Features

• LED interior lighting
• Pull out kitchenette with stove
• 11 gallon fresh water tank
• Fold out bed
• Solar port
• Dual propane tanks
• Skylights with night shades

#10 TrailManor 3124 Series

TrailManor doesn’t make the average pop up camper. Instead, they’ve adopted a hybrid hi-lo style camper which gives you all of the benefits of a pop up trailer and a regular RV in one.

One of the best features of the 3124 model is that it comes with an enclosed hard-sided dry bath which has a toilet, shower tub, and sink included. So, no more worrying about having to shower outside of your camper.

Despite the hybrid design, it’s actually a pretty lightweight camper, weighing in at 3,200 lbs. Although it’s TrailManor’s largest model, when folded up, it’s roughly the same size as regular tent trailers, which makes it an easy camper to move around.

TrailManor is one of the more luxurious models of pop up campers, and each comes with a king sized bed, three burner stove, marble look countertops, and a spacing living room for entertaining and relaxing.

There are a few different floor plans, so you can choose the one that fits your needs the most.

Specs

• Dry Weight: 3,200 lbs
• Length: 24’
• Width: 7’11”
• Sleep capacity: Up to 7 people

Key Features

• Full bathroom including shower tub
• 40 gallon fresh water tank
• 3 burner stove with oven
• LED interior lights
• TV/cable outlet
• Steel frame
• Hard-sided walls

What Makes a Good Pop-Up Camper?

When putting together out list for best pop up campers, we used the following criteria:

• Sleeping capacity: We ignored trailers that only slept a single person, and instead only reviewed models that had a larger sleeping capacity (2 minimum).
• Bathrooms included: We chose campers that had bathrooms, or had the option to upgrade with a toilet and shower.
• Modern features: We selected campers which had modern amenities that improved the overall camping experience.
• Weather resistant: As pop up campers are susceptible to mold and mildew, we chose campers that were well insulated so that moisture will be kept out.
• Upgrade capabilities: We considered campers that gave owners the ability to upgrade features so that the camper can be kept up to date with everything you need.

Different Types of Pop Up Campers

Not all pop up campers are built or look the same. Before we look at the list of campers, we’re going to look at the different types that you can opt for.

Tent Trailers

If you want to experience the traditional tent camping experience, but don’t want the hassle of having to use a tent, then a tent trailer is the perfect solution.

Typically, tent trailers are lightweight, which makes them easy to tow, and the canvas walls can be extended outward to create a larger interior space.

Also, they are relatively easy to set up. If you’re looking to buy a tent trailer, try and choose one that has a water repellant canvas. This will keep you dry in even the harshest of weather and will help keep mold and mildew out.

Tent trailers are great options for those beginning a transition from traditional tent camping to the RV experience.

Hard Wall Campers

Hard wall campers are a pretty innovative design and are often hybrids of tent trailers and RVs.

As the walls are solid, there’s no need to worry about battling against the elements. Another benefit of solid walls is that there tends to be more luxurious amenities available for hard wall campers.

A-Frame Campers

These look like mobile A-frame homes. To put one together, it doesn’t really require much effort. It’s as simple as lifting walls and latching them in place. They’re pretty easy to tow, and even small SUVs can handle it.

One downside to A-frame campers is that they tend to be on the smaller side, but if you’re after something more compact, this is a great option.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Pop Up Camper

There are several things you should consider before purchasing a pop up camper.

For example, do you want to buy a new or used one? Do you want a canvas tent or a hard wall camper? Do you need one for large group trips, or a couples getaway?

The answer to these questions is going to be based on your needs and preferences, but let’s get you started on some things to think about.

Buying Used

If you don’t want to or can’t afford to buy a pop up camper new, there’s always the option to buy used.

You can often get great deals on second hand trailers, but make sure you look at them properly as you don’t want to find any nasty or costly surprises.

A lot of secondhand trailers may also need repairs, so don’t forget to factor that into your budget.

Towing

One of the best features of pop up campers is that they’re low-profile, which makes them easy to tow. A pop up camper is great if your car doesn’t have great towing capacity.

Storage

As a pop up camper van folds away, they are easy to store in residential garages. Just make sure that the canvas has fully dried before storing away, as mold may begin to grow.

Set-up/Packing Away

Typically, pop up campers are pretty easy to set up and put away. There are usually a few moving parts which extend from the main body.

This allows you to spend more time enjoying your camping experience without the hassle of having to deal with a traditional tent.

Elemental Protection

With a pop up camper, you are going to have more protection than a regular canvas tent.

However, make sure you invest in a quality tent camper as they are susceptible to harsh weather damage if they’re not made from the best quality.

With A-frame and hard wall campers you don’t have to worry about rain/water damage as much.

FAQs

References:

• Campergrid.com
• RVandplaya.com
• Popupadvice.com