Read this comprehensive article to find the best pop-up camper to suit your needs. Pop-up campers have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people are looking for a way to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of home. These compact, lightweight trailers are easy to tow and set up, making them a great option for weekend getaways or longer trips. They represent a natural step up from a tent without making the hefty investment required to buy an RV. A large part of the appeal of pop-up campers is the fact that they are so easy to store at home in your garage or garden, so you don’t have to go to the expense of paying for storage facilities.
If you’re exploring the concept of pop-up campers for the first time, you may not realise that they don’t actually just pop up! The hard roof is raised by a hydraulic winch and then the telescoping metal poles and two-bed sliders are pulled out by hand.
However, with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to figure out which one is right for you.
When it comes to choosing the best pop-up camper, there are several factors to consider. The size of the camper, the amenities it offers, and the price are all important considerations. Some campers are designed for families, while others are better suited for couples or solo travellers. Additionally, some models are more luxurious than others, with features like air conditioning, heating, and full kitchens.
A major factor to consider is the walls of your pop-up: some are made of tent material, whereas others are solid, fibreglass walls. Your choice here really depends on your own preferences: do you still want to hear the sounds of nature outside, as you did in your tent, or would you prefer to feel more snug and secure inside the more robust walls of a high-walled pop-up? This is an important decision to make at the outset.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best pop-up campers on the market and help you determine which one is right for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time buyer, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of pop-up campers!
Understanding Pop-Up Campers
Pop-up campers, also known as tent trailers or folding campers, are a popular type of RV that is designed to be lightweight and easy to tow. They are a great option for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of setting up a traditional tent or the expense of a full-size motorhome.
Pop-up campers are typically smaller than other types of RVs, making them ideal for those who want to travel light. They are also collapsible, which means that they can be easily stored when not in use. This makes them a great option for those who have limited storage space.
One of the main features of a pop-up camper is its canvas walls. These walls can be easily raised and lowered, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while still being protected from the elements. Some pop-up campers also have hard-sided walls, which provide additional protection and insulation.
When it comes to choosing a pop-up camper, there are a few things to consider. First, you will need to decide on the size of the camper that you need. Pop-up campers come in a range of sizes, from small pop-up campers that can sleep two people, to larger models that can sleep up to six.
You will also need to consider the features that are important to you. Some pop-up campers come with a range of amenities, such as a kitchenette, bathroom, and air conditioning. Others are more basic, with just a sleeping area and basic kitchen facilities.
Key Features to Look For When Choosing the Best Pop-up Camper for Your Needs
When choosing the best pop-up camper, there are several key features to consider. These can make a significant difference in the comfort and convenience of your camping experience. Here are some of the most important features to look out for:
Storage
Storage is a crucial aspect of any pop-up camper. Look for models that offer ample storage space for all your camping gear, including clothes, food, and equipment. Some pop-up campers come with cabinets, shelves, and compartments that provide plenty of storage options.
Kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen is essential for preparing meals while camping. Look for pop-up campers with a kitchen that includes a sink, stove, and refrigerator. Some models also come with an oven, microwave, and grill for added convenience. The best pop-up campers include outdoor cooking facilities so that you can cook outside and keep the cooking smells and moisture out of your living areas.
Shower
Many pop-up campers come with a shower, which can be a game-changer for those who love to camp off-grid. Some pop-up campers are equipped with an outdoor shower wand so that you can shower outside the camper itself. It’s possible to purchase a shower tent if you want privacy to shower naked. Look for models that have a shower with hot water and good water pressure. Some pop-up campers also come with a cassette toilet, which can be a useful addition. It’s a good tip to ensure that you use toilet paper designed for RV use, as it breaks down easier, making the process of emptying the toilet cassette easier too.
Slide-Out
A slide-out can provide extra living space in your pop-up camper. They are controlled by pushing a button which activates a hydraulic or electric motor to slide out your additional room. Depending on your budget, you can choose pop-up campers with single or multiple slide-outs. a single slide-out might give you a closet, but you can also opt for multiple slide-outs which offer extra sleeping and cooking spaces.
However, although sliders do offer you that additional space, which is definitely a plus point, they do come with their own issues. They need regular maintenance and lubrication to keep them sliding in and out properly, and the mechanism itself can be prone to breaking, if not carefully maintained.
Another issue with sliders is that they’re not as well insulated as the rest of the RV’s main body, so they are prone to leaks and water ingress, which is very bad news, as all RV owners would agree. You also need to bear in mind the fact that the more sliders your pop-up camper is fitted with, the heavier it’s going to be to tow. Therefore you may need a bigger vehicle to tow it, and your fuel costs are likely to be higher.
So there are definitely pros and cons for the slider option: you get extra space if you have sliders, but there are maintenance implications to consider.
USB and 12V Charging Ports
USB and 12V charging ports can provide power to your devices while camping. Look for models that come with USB and 12V charging ports, as it can be a convenient way to charge your devices while on the go.
Wi-Fi Booster and Wi-Fi Ranger
We all know how frustrating it can be if you’re unable to get a phone signal. The best pop-up campers are fitted with a Wi-Fi booster and Wi-Fi ranger, that can provide internet access, even in remote and mountainous regions.
Top Models in the Market
When it comes to the best pop-up campers in the market, there are several models that stand out from the rest. These models offer a combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability, making them a popular choice among camping enthusiasts.
Sylvansport Go
The Sylvansport Go is a versatile pop-up camper that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to take their camping experience to the next level. This camper is designed to be lightweight and easy to tow, making it ideal for those who want to explore remote locations. It features a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to four people, and it comes with a range of amenities, including a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sleeping area.
There are different packages available to suit your budget and requirements: a base package and two additional add-on packages. A well-liked feature of this pop-up camper is that it folds down low into the trailer, making it streamlined and compact. This improves fuel efficiency when it’s being towed along the road. This camper is made from premium materials in the USA.
The National Geographic Adventure magazine is most impressed by the versatility and durability of the Sylvansport Go, describing it as the: “Coolest. Camper. Ever.” And they would know, wouldn’t they?!
This pop-up costs around $11,000
Jayco Jay Sport
The Jayco Jay Sport is another popular pop-up camper that is known for its durability and reliability. This camper is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for camping in all seasons. It features a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to six people, and it comes with a range of amenities, including a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sleeping area.
Coachman Clipper 107LS
The Clipper line offers plenty of choices for you to choose which is the best pop-up camper for you. There are four different styles: the LS, the V-Trek, the Express, and the Sport/ Classic, and each one offers a wide variety of features and sizes.
From my point of view, I really like the range of choices available here: there are so many features that you can customise to fit exactly what you want in order to make this the best pop-up camper for you. Let’s explore some of what’s on offer here:
- water pump
- kitchen with range and two burners
- built-in shower
- porta potty
- fridge
- water heater
- furnace
…and I could go on!
Aliner Expedition
The Aliner Expedition is a premium pop-up camper that is designed to provide a luxurious camping experience. This camper features a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to six people, and it comes with a range of amenities, including a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sleeping area. It also comes with a range of safety features, such as a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector.
Here’s an example of one of the layouts
This pop-up camper is one of the best-designed a-frame pop-up campers on the market. It’s a solid-walled pull-behind: even the pop-ups are solid-walled. This makes this model one of the best pop-up campers in terms of strength. The a-framed shape of the Aliner Expedition offers more headroom than many other pop-up campers. This camper also offers several different layouts to suit your needs: you can choose permanent or fold-away beds, or you may also opt for a sofa conversion to give you greater living space. The Extreme Off-Road Package is also an option that may mean that this model is the best pop-up camper for you.
Viking
The Viking pop-up camper is a popular choice among camping enthusiasts who want a camper that is easy to set up and pack away. This camper features a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to six people, and it comes with a range of amenities, including a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sleeping area. It also comes with a range of safety features, such as an emergency exit window and a fire extinguisher.
The Viking Express by Coachman
This pop-up camper combines a solid-walled pull-behind with a pop-up feature, which expands the interior space. There is also an XL version of this camper that provides an impressive amount of interior space, as well as many other useful amenities.
Here are the main features of the Viking Express Pop-up Camper:
- 27-gallon freshwater tank
- laminated fibreglass roof
- air conditioning unit ( optional)
- heater
- 3 different tyre size options
Rockwood
The Rockwood pop-up camper is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience. This camper features a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to six people, and it comes with a range of amenities, including a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sleeping area. It also comes with a range of safety features, such as a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector.
The Forest River Rockwood ESP 1910ESP comes top of the list on https://blog.campingworld.com/find-your-rv/best-pop-up-campers/.
This is a very popular fold-down 12-foot camper which comes equipped with a three-ring burner for cooking and enough room for five people to sleep in it. The dinette is a good space: 40 x 74 inches, so there’s plenty of room to eat, and this model comes equipped with a portable toilet, fridge and awning. Another benefit of this pop-up camper is the air-conditioning, to keep you cool in hot weather- nice!
The ESP in the name, by the way, stands for ‘Extreme Sports Package’.
It’s interesting to see that the Forest River Rockwood is also featured at the top of the list of ‘5 Pop-Ups That Deliver Beyond Expectations’ on the expert site: https://www.rv.com.
Guess what? It also features top of the list on this blog too: https://blog.campersinn.com/blog/top-rated-pop-up-campers, so it must be worth thinking about, surely!
Why this could be the best pop-up camper for you:
Features:
- water pump
- hot water package
- 20-gallon freshwater tank
- 100w solar panel( allowing you to go off-grid)
- 15-inch wheels
- heavy-duty mud tyres ( allowing you to go off-roading)
This is a perfect pop-up camper for the adventurer, or the boondocker who wants to travel off-grid. If you choose the 1640LTD model, you will enjoy the two good-sized tent-end beds, a well-equipped dinette and a sink. The option of a refrigerator is also available with this pop-up camper package. The versatile range means that you can cook indoors or outside if the weather is fine, and the 7′ awning offers ample shelter or shade.
The 1640LTD features two tent-end beds, a dinette and a sink with an optional refrigerator. The carryout range lets you enjoy cooking outside or inside depending on the weather, and the 7’ awning offers a shady place to relax on warm summer days.
This pop-up camper can be purchased for under $10,000 MSRP.
Another favourite of RV experts is the:
Forest River Rockwood Freedom 2318G
This could be the best pop-up camper for you if you’re mad about outdoor sports, such as kayaking, mountain biking and surfing because its design offers massive storage for all the equipment you’ll need for your outdoor adventures. The roof is fitted with ProRac Systems crossbars for your mountain bikes or canoes, and the 15″ tyres will allow you a foot of clearance off the ground, for covering uneven terrain.
Inside, you’ll find two tent-end beds, and a gaucho bed gives you extra sleeping space so that you can bring a buddy along. Cooking-wise, the dinette of this pop-up is fitted with an extension to give more room for dining together. There is an interior range and an exterior gas grill, so you’re able to cook indoors or out, depending on the weather. A large storage compartment at the front of the pop-up offers ample room for packing all your outdoor adventure gear for your trip.
Let’s look at some features:
- optional shower and cassette toilet
- three pop-out features ( most pop-ups only have two)
Fancy some additional extras? Well, how do you fancy:
- a hot water package
- a three-burner range
- an outdoor kitchen area
- wood plank flooring
- electric brakes
- USB charging points
- 85″ wide body
- two 80″ beds ?
Well, I really like the sound of all those lovely features, but you are going to have to dig a bit deeper into your wallet to purchase this pop-up camper, or perhaps get a loan for the purchase, as this model starts at $19,999 MSRP.
However, if you have a bigger budget, then why not consider purchasing the:
Rockwood A122S?
This is an A-framed hard-sided pop-up camper with some great features that may well appeal to you:
- kitchen with microwave and range
- water pump
- hot water heater
- shower
- optional port-a-potty
- loads of storage for your vacation hobby gear, including external storage
- EZ Reach Storage truck
- easy to dismantle ready for towing
- low, aerodynamic shape for great fuel efficiency
- easy to store at home
Prices start at around MSRP: $22,740 for this pop-up camper.
The OP4 by Opus
Here’s a great choice for those adventurous folk who are determined to go offroad. Equipped with an independent suspension and a unique trailer hitch, this pop-up will roll over bumpy ground without any problems. The manufacturers claim that it could be taken off-grid for up to four days.
One of the great selling points of the OP4 is that the tent will actually be set up in 90 seconds, as it inflates, by using ‘air beams’ that inflate the tent with a built-in pump. Once inflated, six people can easily sleep inside, and you’d be surprised by the number of luxurious amenities that are on offer here.
This pop-up camper features an ingenious roll-out outdoor kitchen, with a four-burner cooktop and pump-fed tap. When you’re ready to move on, the tent can simply be deflated by opening a few air valves, and then you’re ready to roll.
Another great option for best pop-up campers is the:
Forest River Rockwood Hard Side High Wall Series A212HW
($17,002 MSRP)
One of the best features of this pop-up is the fully enclosed fibreglass exterior that folds into itself, making it a neat and sturdy trailer for towing.
The larger price tag of this pop-up brings you some superior features, including a three-burner stove, sink and extra-large fridge. The A212HW model features a flip-up bed opposite a 50” x 80” dinette. Storage is to be found under the bed and at the front and rear of the pop-up. Another useful feature of this model is the Wi-Fi range booster, which comes as standard.
For around the same budget, you certainly should consider the Forest River Rockwood Premier 2716G ($17,395 MSRP)
The fancy features of this model may well tempt you into judging it to be the best pop-up camper for you! How do you like the sound of:
- heated mattresses
- power lift system
- roomy dinette slide-out
- sofa bed
- shower cassette
- toilet?
There’s also an exterior fridge and grill to cook up some great food outside. I can almost smell those steaks sizzling!
However, if that’s not getting your juices going, maybe the best pop-up camper for you is a little bit more snazzy. A few more bells and whistles required to get you digging out your wallet? If that’s the case, then I really would suggest you consider:
Forest River Rockwood High Wall Series HW296 $21,837
This pop-up camper will provide greater space for the family, while still being lightweight for towing. Inside you will find two tent-end beds and a dinette slide-out that will convert into extra beds, if required. The sofa also provides extra sleeping space. The kitchen features a three-burner stove, microwave and sink, and you can choose a fridge as an optional extra feature. Not only is the kitchen well-equipped, but this pop-up camper has a full-sized enclosed shower, which is a feature I really love! There’s plenty of storage in this pop-up, and the 13′ awning gives you plenty of extra space outdoors where you can cook up a storm on the outdoor gas grill.
In Conclusion
I hope you have found my selection of RVs that I consider to be the best pop-up campers currently on the market useful when making your decision. Happy RVing, adventurers!