Recreational vehicles (RVs) come in many shapes and sizes. Two of the most popular types are pop-up trailers and travel trailers. Pop-up campers are more common these days because the RV industry is offering more options within this category, both soft side and hard side units.
Sometimes known as tent-campers or fold down campers, they are more than a tent, but less than a travel trailer. Pop-ups are a terrific way to get your feet wet in RVing without putting out a lot of money. There are pros and cons to each type of trailer, depending on the kind of camping you do and when you will be using the unit.
Pop Up Camper Pros
- Much lighter than travel trailers, a small SUV, mini-van, or even a larger sedan can tow pop-up trailers.
- Good gas mileage.
- Less expensive than regular travel trailers, they are easier on a smaller budget.
- Pop up trailers provide quick and easy to set up and collapse.
- Compact size means they can often be stored in your garage or back yard.
- They can reach remote campsites that some travel trailers or full size RVs may not.
- Pop-ups usually hold their value and are sometimes easier to sell than travel trailers.
Pop Up Trailers Cons
- Storage capacity is limited, as everything you want to bring must fit in the pop-up when it is collapsed.
- Pop-ups will not include interior bathroom facilities.
- No insulation or limited insulation, making them impractical in cold weather.
- Limited storage space means pop-up trailers are generally only practical for shorter trips.
The next step up in RVs is the travel trailer. Travel trailers range in size from mini “teardrop” units of about 12 feet, to 33-foot triple-axle giants. The newest generation models offer a lot of amenities, including designer-grade interiors, slide-outs, bunk beds for the troops, built-in generators, even satellite TV.
Travel Trailer Pros
- Easily stores sporting goods like fishing gears, water toys, and all the other toys associated with camping trips.
- Many travel trailers have bathroom facilities.
- They usually include larger kitchens for easy cooking and stocking.
- Travel trailers are made of wood, aluminum and fiberglass (vs pop-ups are often made largely of canvas unless you buy a hard side) for a more stable, secure living environment.
- Insulated and heated for a longer camping season.
- Usually sleeps more campers than a pop-up.
- More comfortable for long distance, long term traveling.
Travel Trailer Cons
- A travel trailer is more expensive than a pop-up.
- RV may need to be stored off-site in the off-season.
- It’s more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
- It requires a larger vehicle to tow safely.
- Gas mileage is not as efficient as towing a pop-up.
Ultimately, which type of RV you choose always comes back to how you intend to use your unit. Do you want all the comforts of home, or just a comfortable place to sleep and get out of the rain? If you and your family are out and about all day and only need a place to sleep, then a pop-up may be just the ticket. If you want to take extended trips, kick back and relax inside your trailer or if your family is growing, a travel trailer may work better for you.
If you have any questions or if you are ready check out our selection RVs of all kinds, stop by Ketelsen RV in Hiawatha, Iowa and we’ll be glad to show you around. For more RV News and Tips, please sign up for our newsletter.
