As technology has evolved, so have recreational vehicles. Older models sought to take the normal comforts of home and bring them on the road. The results tended to be bulky and inefficient. As time passed though, manufacturers found ways to include all these benefits in more compact packages. Often, this preference for functionality over size arrived with intentions of immersing adventurers in the outdoors rather than creating separation from the outdoors. With camping more popular than ever, this goal of increased connection with the natural world ushered in the small travel camper era.
Small Travel Camper Efficiencies
Space
Despite the name, most define small travel campers by tow requirements more so than size. That said, these vehicles almost always take up less space. They are often driveway and garage friendly. Not to mention, they squeeze into tight spots when off-roading or camping.
Weight
Most of these vehicles flaunt a dry weight well under 5,000 lbs. This allows mid-size SUV’s and up to tow them. Such flexibility maximizes the number of potential destinations. Concurrently, it probably means you don’t have to invest in a specialized tow vehicle just to utilize your camper.
Fuel
Less bulk leads to increased fuel economy for your tow vehicle. It also demands less power requirements for the trailer itself. Together, these factors translate to increased sustainability and savings.
Small Travel Camper Progress
Road to Rugged
In order to provide more immersive experiences for adventurers, many manufacturers, including TAXA, have begun investing in quality materials that stand up to the elements over time.
For instance, TAXA uses durable powder coated steel on all chassises. Our fenders and gravel guards are also powder coated steel. Further, we build the Cricket and TigerMoth skeleton with with high grade laser-cut aluminum and Aluminum Composite (Aluminum alloy ASTM B 209) panels.
These materials provide a lightweight eco-friendly framework for vehicles. Equally important, it empowers our habitats to go more places with greater safety.
Less Can Still Be More
The term “small travel camper” might imply something negative for some. However, gone are the days of needlessly cramped quarters or non-existent storage space. Many modern travel campers deliver prime functionality without the bloat.
For example, the TAXA Outdoors Mantis achieves lots of headroom and comfortable seating for six by mastering adaptable spaces. This versatility grants room for a full galley kitchen, two-burner stove, and water heater.
Despite the ample living room, the Mantis still manages to include lots to helpful amenities. It comes standard with a 8,000 BTU air conditioner, 8 ft patio awning, and an exterior hot/cold shower just to name a few. We deliver all of this under 20′ at a dry weight of only 2,972 lbs.
With that in mind, the Mantis is an excellent example of giving up next to nothing by going smaller.
Small Travel Camper Era Recap
Consumer demand along with technology have ignited a revolution in recreational vehicles. Increasingly, campers are ditching traditional RV’s in favor of smaller models focused on functionality.
This shift has resulted in superior build quality, use of lighter materials, and more efficient spatial designs in small travel campers. These vehicles now empower a heightened number of campers to journey into nature more fluidly than ever.
With this in mind, the era of the small travel camper seems here to stay.
