Pop-up campers are a great way to get into trailer camping without the hefty investment of a large camper or RV. They're collapsible for easy storage and towing but expand to increase living space once you reach your destination.
They’re more affordable than large trailers, while still offering modern amenities like outdoor kitchens.Tack on an overland package and they also become more versatile, allowing you to take your campsite with you through trails and deep into nature.
You can say that pop-up campers are the ultimate outdoor vehicle for nature enthusiasts.
The key to finding the best pop-up camper is to find one that maximizes utility at your vehicle’s towing limits. Your criteria may be unique to you, but the best pop-up campers should be able to sleep the amount of people you want to bring on a trip comfortably without limiting where you can travel.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to help you find the best pop-up campers for your budget and requirements.
Key Features to Consider
Despite their small size, pop-up campers can come with all sorts of features that make camping far more enjoyable. The best combination comes down to personal demands, but the following features should always be evaluated.
- Sleeping Area: Pop-up campers typically have sleeping accommodations for up to four people. Some sleep four adults; others sleep two adults and two children. You'll need to sort this out to ensure your camper has enough room for you and your guests.
- Convertible Living Spaces: The living space inside of a pop-up camper shouldn't consist of fixed bunks and little else. Convertible living spaces allow you to transform the cabin into a comfortable sitting and dining area to make the most of each moment.
- Full Kitchen: The best part of camping is eating. Consider what type of features you require in an outdoor kitchen galley to make your camping trips a little more practical.
- Storage Space: You should ensure your pop-up camper offers adequate cargo space for all of your gear. Exterior and interior storage containers paired with under-bed storage compartments are all options to look for.
- Amenities: Some basic amenities to look for in a pop-up camper are basic heating, lighting, and plumbing. Models like the TAXA Mantis can also come with showers and offer accommodations for air conditioning units.
- Off-Road Capabilities: Camping in remote destinations is not out of the question for pop-up campers. If this is something you’re interested in, you should look for an overland trailer with the proper suspension, wheels, tires, and hitches rated for trails.
Best Pop-Up Campers Built for Overland Adventures
Pop-up campers built for overlanding offer the best of both worlds: upgraded suspensions and amenities built for outdoor adventures. Below is a list of the best pop-up campers that can accompany you on the road or trail wherever you go.
TAXA Mantis Overland
The TAXA Mantis is an impressive pop-up camper in its base form. With sleeping accommodations for four adults, a full kitchen, a bathroom, a large living area, and a starting weight of just 3,115 pounds, it's perhaps the most comprehensive model for its weight class.
The low weight means it’s easy to tow, which is great for travelers with small, economy vehicles that don’t want to buy a big truck. Upgrading to the Overland Edition equips it with the suspension, tires, and hitch needed to take the luxurious camper to remote areas.
X-Series: TAXA Mantis X comes with all of the same features as the TAXA Mantis Overland, but with even better suspension, chassis, and off-road features.
TAXA Cricket Overland
The TAXA Cricket is perfect for new families starting their off-road camping adventure. It comfortably sleeps two adults and two children with a convertible living space that makes the most of the compact size.
With a starting weight of just 1,800 pounds, it’s well within reason for any tow vehicle. The Overland and Cricket X Editions are equipped with the suspension, tires, and hardware needed to confidently traverse the trails to any hidden getaway.
Tips for Choosing the Best Pop-Up Camper
Consider the following factors when searching for the best pop-up camper for your overland adventures.
- Emphasize Craftsmanship and Quality Materials: A camper built well in the first place will withstand the test of time. Make sure to invest in a trailer that's built with care and quality materials.
- Consider Poor Weather: Don't just think about camping in ideal weather. Select a camper that will create the best experience in any condition.
- Don’t Forget Trailer Weight: You should always be mindful of trailer weight while shopping. Staying within the tow vehicle's limitations guarantees a camping trip that's as safe as it is enjoyable.
Maintenance and Care
When you finally find the perfect pop-up camper, you'll need to take the right steps to protect your investment. There's no better way to ensure your travel trailer sticks around for years to come than by keeping up with routine maintenance.
While the necessary steps will vary from model to model, and you should always reference the literature that comes with the one you buy, the following tips will apply to most trailers.
- Regularly monitor and replace seals as needed.
- Keep your roof lift mechanism clean and lubricated to maintain smooth operation.
- Grease your wheel bearings at least once a year and replace them when necessary.
- Treat water tanks to avoid bacteria build-up in the tank.
- Keep tire pressure in check, especially as you travel through varying climates.
- Clean and dry your camper prior to storage to prevent mold and mildew.
- Winterize water tanks before storing the camper in sub-freezing temperatures.
Pop-up campers are budget-friendly, compact trailers that are as easy to make memories in as they are to tow and store. Despite their size, they truly can offer camping experiences that rival that of a large camper or RV.
That is, as long as you take the time to pick the model with the features that you deem essential to making that happen.
FAQs
What are the advantages of pop-up campers over other types of RVs?
Pop-up campers are more affordable and easier to store and tow than larger campers and RVs. They're also packed with amenities and accommodations smaller trailers can't offer.
How easy is it to set up and take down a pop-up camper?
Most pop-up campers feature easy-to-use lift mechanisms that allow one person to effortlessly open and close the roof as needed.
What amenities are typically included in pop-up campers designed for overland use?
While it can vary by model, pop-up campers typically include heating systems, accommodations for air conditioning, full kitchens, and can even include a bathroom and shower.
