Pop-Up Tent Campers: How Much Do They Cost?

Pop-up campers are a type of recreational vehicle (RV) that combines the features of a travel trailer and a tent. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without compromising on simplicity, weight, and cost. The price of a pop-up camper varies depending on its features and condition. Basic models cost around $3,000 to $7,000, while larger trailers with more amenities can range from $8,000 to over $20,000. Used pop-up campers are also an option, with prices depending on their condition and the functionality of their equipment.

Basic tent trailer prices

Typically, a basic tent trailer, also known as a pop-up camper, will cost between $3,000 and $7,000. These trailers are considered entry-level recreational vehicles, perfect for those new to camping or looking for a simple and affordable option. Basic models usually include essential features such as beds, a small dining area, and basic cooking appliances like a propane stove or an icebox.

For example, the Coachmen Clipper Sport, which is 17 feet long when set up and includes two roll-out beds, a three-burner propane stove, and a stainless steel sink, falls within this price range at $5,000 to $6,000. You can also find models like the new 2024 Forest River RV Flagstaff MACLTD Series 176LTD for $12,995, which includes features for year-round camping, such as heating for winter and air conditioning for summer.

Factors Affecting Price:

The price of a basic tent trailer can be influenced by various factors, including the brand, size, and additional amenities. Some brands, like Forest River, Jayco, and Coachmen, are known for their quality and may carry a higher price tag.

Additionally, the size of the trailer when folded and unfolded can impact the cost. Basic models tend to be smaller, falling within the 8 to 16-foot length range when folded and doubling in length when unfolded.

Additional Features:

While basic tent trailers include standard features, you may find models that offer additional amenities for a higher price. For example, the Coachmen Clipper Sport offers optional upgrades like a refrigerator, awning, and hot water system.

If you're looking for a more comprehensive camping experience, you can expect to pay more for features like better cooking appliances, a heater, air conditioner, outdoor shower, portable toilet, or even a slide-out dinette area. These additional amenities will enhance your comfort and convenience during your camping trips.

Used Tent Trailers:

It's worth mentioning that you can also find used tent trailers at more affordable prices. Well-maintained used trailers that are a few years old can cost 20% to 25% less than their original purchase price. When considering a used trailer, ensure that the canvas is in good condition and that all equipment and appliances are functional.

In conclusion, basic tent trailer prices can range from $3,000 to $7,000, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy the great outdoors. With features like built-in beds, dining areas, and cooking appliances, these trailers provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience without breaking the bank.

Large tent trailer prices

The price of a large tent trailer varies depending on its specifications, features, and age. Here are some examples of prices for large tent trailers:

• A 2023 Forest River Rockwood A214HW with a sale price of $18,173, discounted from an MSRP of $28,286.65.
• A 2023 Forest River Rockwood 2280BHESP with a sale price of $15,989, discounted from an MSRP of $24,947.85.
• A 2022 Forest River Rockwood HIGH WALL HW296 that sleeps six people is available at Camping World in London, KY.
• A 2022 Forest River Flagstaff MAC Series 176LTD in "immaculate condition" is available at Camping World in London, KY.
• A 2020 Black Series "Dominator" forward-fold camper trailer in "great condition" is available at Camping World in North Charleston, SC.
• A 2015 A Liner ALINER RANGER 15 with a length of 18 feet is available at Forest River RV Greenville by Camping World.
• A 2021 Coachmen CLIPPER EXPRESS 12.0TDXL that sleeps two people is available at Camping World in North Charleston, SC.
• A 2018 Forest River Flagstaff HARD SIDE T19QBHW that sleeps four people is available at Camping World in North Charleston, SC.
• A 2022 Forest River Rockwood HIGH WALL HW296 that sleeps seven people is available at Camping World in Columbia, SC.
• A 2020 Coachmen CLIPPER CLASSIC 1285SST that sleeps five people is available at Camping World in Columbia, SC.
• A 2021 Forest River Rockwood HARD SIDE A214HW that sleeps three people is available at Camping World in Columbia, SC.
• A 2018 Forest River Flagstaff HIGH WALL HW29SC that sleeps seven people is available at Camping World in Statesville, NC.
• A 1996 Jayco Pop-Up Tent Trailer that has been "fully redone" and is in "great condition" is available for $2,900.
• A 2003 Palomino tent trailer with three tip-outs, one king bed, one queen bed, a kitchen table/bed, a fridge, and heat is available for $3,500.
• A 1998 Coleman Cheyenne pop-up trailer in "good condition" that comes with a full add-on screen room.

Soft-sided pop-up campers

The lightest soft-sided campers weigh as little as 700 pounds, while the heaviest can reach 3,000 pounds. When folded down, they measure around 8 to 16 feet, but when set up, they double in length. Despite their small size, they come with a sleeping area and a small kitchen, and some models even have a full bathroom.

If you're looking for a soft-sided pop-up camper, there are several manufacturers to consider. Jayco, Inc. is a leading American manufacturer of towable and motorized RVs, offering high-quality, easy-to-set-up, and easy-to-use soft-sided fold-out trailers. SylvanSport is another American brand that specialises in lightweight camping trailers and accessories, with a focus on innovation. Forest River, one of the biggest names in the camping industry, builds hard-side pop-up campers under the brand names Rockwood and Flagstaff, and their series of campers are known for their quality, simplicity, and towability. Starcraft, one of the oldest and most respected names in the camping business, offers a range of lightweight soft-sided tent campers and A-frame fold-out trailer models.

The cost of a soft-sided pop-up camper can vary depending on its age, size, and features. On average, you can expect to pay between $60 and $100 per night to rent one. However, older and smaller versions may be as low as $50 per night, while newer and more sophisticated models may cost over $150. When considering the cost, remember to factor in additional expenses such as mileage, cleaning fees, linens, generator use, and delivery fees.

Hard-sided pop-up campers

Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers

Rockwood, a brand under Forest River, offers a range of hard-sided pop-up campers. Their campers feature both an air conditioner and a furnace, ensuring your comfort regardless of the external conditions. They also come with a range of standard features, including a durable diamond plate front, a fiberglass laminated roof, 4 stabilizer jacks with sand pads, torsion EZ lube axles, and more. The Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers are designed to offer the convenience of a tent camper with the exterior of a travel trailer.

Flagstaff Hard-Sided Pop-Up Campers

Flagstaff, another brand under Forest River, offers hard-sided pop-up campers such as the Flagstaff High Wall HW296 and the Flagstaff MAC/LTD 206LTD. These campers provide a lightweight and affordable option for those looking to explore nature.

Jayco Pop-Up Campers

Jayco is a leading American manufacturer of towable and motorized recreational vehicles. They offer high-quality, easy-to-set-up, and easy-to-use soft-side and hard-side fold-out travel trailers. Their pop-up campers are a great option for those looking for a reliable and well-built camper.

TrailManor Pop-Up Campers

TrailManor offers hard-sided pop-up campers that provide a good balance between weight and height, resulting in improved efficiency when towing. Their campers are known for their lightweight construction, with some users reporting an efficiency of around 1.6 mi/kWh when towing with an empty camper.

Aliner Pop-Up Campers

Aliner offers a range of pop-up campers that are not hard-sided but are still worth considering. Their campers are known for their lightweight construction, with some models sleeping up to four people.

The cost of a pop-up camper can vary depending on its age, size, and features. On average, you can expect to pay between $60 and $100 per night to rent a pop-up camper, with smaller and older versions available for as low as $50, and newer, more sophisticated models costing over $150. When purchasing a new or used pop-up camper, prices can range from a few thousand dollars to over $20,000, depending on the features and condition.

Pros and cons of renting a pop-up camper

Pop-up campers are a fantastic option for those who want to experience nature simply, lightly, and affordably. They are a blend between a travel trailer and a tent, making them a unique recreational vehicle. They are lightweight, easy to tow, and provide all the comforts of home while camping outdoors.

Pros of Renting a Pop-Up Camper:

• Affordable: Pop-up campers are one of the most affordable RV options, with rentals costing between $50 to $150 per night on average.
• Easy to Tow: Most pop-up campers are lightweight, weighing between 1,500 to 3,000 pounds, and can be towed by small SUVs, vans, and even some cars with a hitch.
• Beginner-Friendly: Pop-up campers are perfect for those transitioning from car or tent camping to RVing. They are small, easy to operate, and don't require a lengthy adaptation period.
• Increased Navigability: Their compact size allows them to fit into areas where larger RVs cannot, making them ideal for narrow, dirt roads.
• Simple Route Planning: Pop-up campers are towed in a compressed package, so you don't have to worry about weight and height restrictions when planning your route.
• Main Essentials: Despite their small size, pop-up campers include places to sleep, cook, and dine. Some models even have full bathrooms, storage, and bike racks.
• Detachable: You can detach the pop-up camper from your tow vehicle once you reach your destination and use the vehicle for exploring the area.
• Ample Storage: Pop-up campers offer surprising storage space for all your camping essentials, with creative use of cabinets, benches, and the main living space.

Cons of Renting a Pop-Up Camper:

• Climate Control: Pop-up campers without climate control features may struggle with temperature regulation due to their thin walls, leading to overheating or chilly conditions.
• Wet Conditions: The canvas sides of the camper can get soaked in the rain, allowing water to seep inside and requiring drying time before packing up.
• Noise: The thin walls provide limited soundproofing, which can be an issue when camping in crowded spots as outside noises can be disturbing.
• Setup and Takedown: Setting up and taking down a pop-up camper requires physical effort and can be time-consuming, especially for first-time users.
• Break-Ins: While safer than tents, pop-up campers are still vulnerable to break-ins, so caution is needed regarding food and valuables left inside.
• Lack of Privacy: Limited soundproofing and privacy can be an issue in noisy campgrounds.

Frequently asked questions