Hard-Top Camper: 2004 Coleman's Worth And Value

The Coleman camper is a well-known brand for those who love to travel and explore. The Coleman camper has been around for a while, with the company's history going back to the early 1900s. In 1967, Coleman built its first camper, a pop-up tent trailer, and by 1979, it was the top seller of tent campers in America. The 2004 Coleman camper is a sought-after model, with many units available for sale across the United States. The price of a 2004 Coleman camper varies depending on its specifications and condition. For example, a 2004 Coleman Grand Tour Bayside in excellent condition is priced at $5,750, while a 2004 Coleman Destiny Santa Fe in excellent condition is listed for $4,975. The features offered by these campers include sleeping options for up to eight people, a dinette that converts into a bed, a sink with a fresh water holding tank, a propane stove, an awning, and ample storage space. The Coleman camper provides a comfortable and stylish camping experience and is a good option for those looking for a reasonably priced camper.

Coleman camper features and specifications

Coleman campers are known for their unique and convenient features. They are lightweight and packed with amenities, making them a popular choice for cross-country adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed home-away-from-home. Here are some of the features and specifications that you can expect from a Coleman camper:

Sleeping Capacity:

Coleman campers offer a comfortable sleeping room, with some models accommodating up to 10 people. Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple, or a large family, there is a Coleman camper to suit your needs.

Technology:

Coleman campers are 4G LTE Wi-Fi compatible, keeping you connected during your adventures.

Set-up:

They are designed for easy set-up, featuring power stabilizers and tongue jacks.

Insulation:

Coleman campers have an enclosed and insulated underbelly, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements.

Customization:

You can also customize your flooring and decor to make your Coleman camper feel like home.

Durability:

Coleman campers are built to last with features like black diamond plate rock guards and an enclosed underbelly, making them capable of withstanding cross-country adventures in any weather.

Floor Plans:

Coleman offers a variety of floor plans to choose from, including the Lantern, Lantern LT, Light, and Rubicon models. Each model offers unique features and layouts to suit your needs.

Manufacturer:

It is important to note that Coleman campers are now manufactured by Dutchman, who continue to produce trailers with the highest quality materials, features, and attention to detail.

Additional Features:

Other features you may find in a Coleman camper include dual entry doors, spacious interiors, fully-equipped kitchenettes, bathrooms, ample storage space, and slide-outs for added room.

Coleman camper pricing

Coleman campers are a great option for those looking for a cost-effective way to get into the world of camping and RVing. With a long history in the camping industry, Coleman has been producing campers since 1967, when they built their first pop-up tent trailer. By 1979, Coleman was the top seller of tent campers in America.

Pricing Factors

When it comes to pricing, there are several factors that can affect the cost of a Coleman camper. These include:

• Age and condition: Older models tend to be more affordable, but may require more maintenance and repairs.
• Features and amenities: More basic models with fewer amenities will generally be cheaper than those with more features.
• Size: Larger campers tend to be more expensive, as they offer more sleeping capacity and space.
• Seller: Prices can vary depending on whether you're buying from a private seller or a dealership, and prices can also vary between different dealerships.

Coleman Camper Prices

• A 2004 Coleman Grand Tour Bayside pop-up camper with sleeping capacity for 6-8 people was listed for $5,750.
• A 2004 Coleman Destiny Santa Fe pop-up camper in excellent condition with sleeping options for 6 was listed for $4,975.
• A 2004 Fleetwood Coleman Hemlock pop-up camper that sleeps up to 7 was advertised without a listed price.
• A 2004 Coleman 1500 Popup camper in clean condition, sleeping 6, and featuring a dinette, storage, refrigerator, a/c, and a furnace was listed without a price.
• A 2004 Coleman Grand Tour Utah pop-up camper with a slide-out dinette, resulting in a spacious interior, was listed without a price.
• A 2004 Fleetwood Grand Tour Santa Fe Coleman fold-down camper that sleeps 6 was listed without a price.

Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to the purchase price of the camper, there are also other costs to consider, such as:

• Maintenance and repairs: Older campers may require more maintenance and repairs, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
• Camping site fees: Depending on where you plan to camp, you may need to pay nightly or weekly fees for your campsite.
• Accessories and upgrades: You may want to purchase additional accessories or make upgrades to your camper, such as a new mattress or awning.
• Insurance and registration: These costs can vary depending on your location and the value of your camper.

Alternative Options

If you're looking for a more affordable option, you could consider a used camper from another brand or a different model year. Additionally, some people opt for renting a camper or RV for their trips instead of purchasing one outright, which can be a more cost-effective option, especially for those who only camp occasionally.

Coleman camper history

The Coleman Company, founded by William Coffin Coleman, began selling gasoline pressure lamps in 1901 in Wichita. The company's early history is marked by the introduction of the Coleman lantern, a series of pressure lamps that played a role in the first night football game west of the Mississippi River in 1905. Over 50 million Coleman lanterns have been sold worldwide since then.

In the 1940s, after World War II, car camping gained popularity, and Coleman introduced the fold-up gasoline camp stove to meet the needs of consumers. This product became a must-have for those who enjoyed camping.

In the 1950s, Coleman coolers were introduced, replacing the heavy steel picnic chests that were previously used. The popularity of these coolers remains high even today, with various sizes and options available.

By 1967, Coleman had expanded into the recreational vehicle (RV) market, adding its iconic logo to camping trailers. In 1979, Coleman became the best-selling brand of camping trailers in the United States, a position it held until 2010.

Over the years, different RV manufacturers licensed the Coleman name, and today, the Coleman lineup includes expandable models, travel trailers, and toy haulers. The Coleman name continues to be associated with a full line of affordable travel trailers that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

In 1989, Fleetwood RV bought the rights to Coleman trailers, and in 2003, they stopped using the Coleman brand. However, they continued to produce pop-up campers with similar features and names. In 2004, Fleetwood introduced the Highlander High-Walled series, with models named after evergreen trees like the Sequoia and Redwood.

In 2008, Fleetwood sold its folding trailer division, and in 2011, it filed for bankruptcy, ceasing the production of folding camping trailers. Despite these changes, the Coleman legacy of camping innovations continues, and the brand remains a prominent name in the camping industry.

Coleman camper maintenance

Exterior

• Set a schedule for cleaning your Coleman camper after every trip.
• Use the right supplies: a hose, brushes (for the exterior and windows), buckets, and microfiber towels.
• Clean the roof and any components (e.g. A/C, vents, satellite) to prevent sitting water from compromising seams and getting into areas prone to expansion during temperature fluctuations.
• Clean the awning by detaching the legs and letting the cover lie flat for better access.
• Wax the exterior every 3 months to maintain its luster and protect it from harmful sunlight, heat, and moisture. Avoid using caustic, highly alkaline, or ammonia-containing cleaners, as these can cause staining.
• Remove black streaks from the exterior.
• Use polishing compounds for scratches on fiberglass exteriors, followed by wax to seal the abrasion.
• Clean the windows, vacuum around the window to clear any debris, and inspect the frame and sidewall for any voids, cracks, or shrinkage. Lubricate with a light oil or powdered graphite.
• Avoid dry wiping, rubbing compounds, and high-pressure washers when cleaning metal areas.
• Wash the wheels, axles, and running gear if travelling to areas with snow, road salts/chemicals, or saltwater.
• Lubricate the RV steps' pivot points with a dry lubricant spray every 30-60 days.
• Lubricate the hitch/coupler ball socket and clamp with wheel bearing grease.

Interior

• Refer to the Coleman Pop-Up owner's manual for maintenance and repair guides.
• Perform a deep clean before putting your camper in storage, ensuring there is no leftover food to attract pests.
• Use RV covers to keep your camper looking like new.

Coleman camper reviews

Coleman campers are a popular choice for cross-country adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed home-away-from-home. Coleman has been manufacturing camping trailers for over 50 years and is one of America's best-selling brands.

Features

Since rising to fame for their easy-to-use pop-up campers, Coleman has continued to innovate with unique and convenient features. Today, you can access a range of Coleman RVs that are lightweight and packed with amenities, including:

• Comfortable sleeping room, with some models sleeping up to 10 people
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi compatibility
• Easy set-up with power stabilizers and tongue jacks
• Enclosed and insulated underbelly
• Custom flooring and decor options

Models

There are many different Coleman models to choose from. Here's a look at some of the most popular:

• Coleman Lantern: This iconic line offers a stylish design and a durable build, perfect for families and long-haul adventurers.
• Coleman Lantern LT: Offers greater luxury and spacious living areas, with a variety of layouts and the ability to sleep up to 10 people comfortably.
• Coleman Light: Offers smaller and lighter builds, perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families who want outdoor adventure without sacrificing home comforts.
• Coleman Rubicon: A sleek, fuel-efficient, and easily towable design, perfect for solo travellers or couples.

Reviews

Reviews for Coleman campers are mixed. Some customers praise the floor plans, ease of use, and comfort, while others criticise the quality of materials and construction. Here is a selection of reviews from RV Insider:

#### 2022 Coleman Light 1855RB

"Our favourite feature of this RV is the floor plan. It's perfect for a couple, single person or a small family... The murphy bed can be made as a bed all the time, while there is still a table/booth to sit at to play games, read, watch a movie or eat. By the way, the bed is comfy too!... This camper has been one of our favourites we've owned!"

#### 2022 Coleman Lantern 18BH

"All the Coleman/Dutchmen engineers got together and asked: 'how can we make the cheapest trailer possible, yet still charge a high price'?... Tinted windows? NO, too expensive... Windows? 2 should be enough... Storage? Empty spaces under the kitchen countertop that SHOULD have doors or drawers (unusable voids)... The so-called 'couch' is too short for a normal person (VERY uncomfortable) and the cushions on [the] couch AND dinette are hard as a rock... This is my 4th trailer so I KNOW what I’m talking about. Good luck."

#### 2021 Coleman Light 2515RL

"I’ve had this trailer for 3 years and found minor problems that I solved myself. Overall the trailer is very good and you get what you pay for... I bought this trailer new from camping world in ft Myers Florida, although they weren’t the best, they did accomplish the few issues that I requested."

#### 2013 Coleman Expedition 297RE

"Absolute junk... I know the complete history of this trailer since new and it has only been taken on the road 6 times in 10 years... I would be ashamed to say I worked at this factory. Also Coleman's 'K2' insulation package is a joke... Overall extremely poor workmanship and quality of materials."

#### 2023 Dutchmen Coleman Lantern LT 17B

"Tall and blocky enough to blow all over the road unless you spend an extra $2500 on an obscene hitch setup... The materials used are cheap and flimsy and start to disintegrate after the very first use, the storage compartments are lined with cheap pressboard so any decent packing results in the destruction of the compartment itself... Save yourself the trouble, find a used camper that doesn’t come from Coleman. Save twice the money, get twice the quality. This thing is junk."

Frequently asked questions