For close to a year, whenever my mind was free to wander as we trundled along on our North American journey, it kept returning to one persistent question: how could I design and build a camper on my Defender that would accommodate four adult-size people, preserve the vehicle’s off-road capability and on-road nimbleness, and still fit inside a high-cube shipping container? I visited overland shows, scoured the internet, and studied countless builds. Before long, I came to a simple realization: in the context of mobile outdoor living, space plus light equals luxury.
I do not mean the luxury of a five-star Dubai hotel. I mean the luxury of comfort, a cool breeze, and natural light. The luxury of a full range of motion, of enjoying a view from the comfort of your bed, and of being immersed in nature without being constrained by it—remaining in control of your environment rather than sealed off from it. For long periods on the road, especially with a family, space is the ultimate luxury. Yet at the same time, you still want to drive over that dune, squeeze through a forest track, climb a rocky step, or push through an African jungle in the rainy season. For that, you need compact dimensions, a relatively short wheelbase, and a willingness to scratch the paint—but not lose the roof.
As the tallest member of the family, I built the camper to my own dimensions: an interior width of 1.96 meters, an interior height of 1.96 meters, and an interior length of 3.3 meters. In theory, these dimensions would allow all of us to sleep, stand, and configure the interior to meet our needs. But the roof height could not be static—and why should it be? My solution was straightforward. Together, Luisa and I designed a horizontal pop-up roof with canvas walls that raised 40 centimeters. This created full standing room for all of us, an additional sleeping or storage area, and—with windows sewn into the canvas—extra ventilation to let hot air escape during muggy nights in Africa or near the equator.
The principles of a pop-up camper are essentially the same whether the platform is a slide-in camper, a fixed body, or a trailer. The expansion of usable space, combined with the flexibility of canvas, makes these campers both compact and versatile.
But isn’t a canvas pop-up a liability? Isn’t insulation compromised? Won’t the structure suffer in strong storms? And isn’t it a hassle to open and close every day?
First, insulation. We traveled to the Arctic in March in a Nimbl camper with a hydraulic pop-up roof, and the Webasto diesel heater kept us so warm that we slept in our underwear while the outer canvas froze solid at -36°C. Much further south in our Defender camper, we have winter-camped using nothing more than thick down duvets and a gas stove to cut the chill, and we were never so cold as to be uncomfortable. Yes, a diesel heater is essential for a pop-up in a northern-hemisphere winter, especially above the 45th parallel, but the idea that canvas automatically equals cold simply does not hold up in practice.
As for storms, we have endured violent weather in Turkey and Southern Africa, as well as a tornado blow-off in Minnesota, where trees around us were falling. In severe conditions, we simply closed the pop-up roof and hunkered down. I specifically designed the camper so that we could sleep inside it with the roof down, and now that the kids no longer travel with us, we have more than enough space to do so comfortably.
Finally, the daily routine. Our pop-up system is completely manual, which means it can be a bit of a nuisance to open and close every day. But I prefer mechanical simplicity. Over time, we became a well-oiled machine, and what initially felt like a hassle became part of the rhythm of travel—no more burdensome than folding down a large family-size roof tent, in fact, significantly less burdensome.
When all is said and done, a pop-up camper is, in my experience, the most practical solution for anyone who needs a vehicle that is compact, capable, and genuinely livable over long periods of travel. It reconciles two goals that normally sit in direct opposition: keeping external dimensions small for technical driving and shipping logistics, while still creating a light-filled, spacious interior that supports day-to-day life on the road.
Like any design choice, a pop-up involves trade-offs. It demands thoughtful insulation, disciplined packing, and a willingness to interact physically with your living space each morning and evening. But in return, it delivers a rare balance of simplicity, resilience, and livability. For those who value off-road capability, mechanical honesty, and long-term comfort over glossy finishes and static floor plans, a well-designed pop-up camper trailer is not a compromise at all. It is, quite simply, the most elegant solution I have found.
Boreas Campers EOS-12
The EOS-12 from Boreas Campers (named after the Greek Goddess of dawn) is manufactured in Pueblo, Colorado. Founder Matt Reichel is an avid explorer who drew on his experiences overlanding the United States to design a range of rugged but high-end camper trailers.
The EOS-12 is a fully insulated four-season camper trailer with a zero-wood composite exterior and a molded fiberglass roof, making it far more durable than traditional trailers. A full-sized spare tire and propane tank are mounted at the tongue of the trailer, along with adequate storage with undercarriage lighting for the evenings. The spacious interior features a permanent queen bed, a dinette that converts to a twin bed (perfect for the little one), an exterior kitchen area, and a wet bath. The air suspension is integrated into the standard Garmin O.N.E. control system, allowing the trailer to self-level or adjust ride height wirelessly via Bluetooth.
Weight and Dimensions
The EOS-12 has a dry weight of 3,800 pounds and a generous payload capacity of 5,200 pounds, providing ample room for gear, water, and accessories. At 20 feet in length and 86 inches wide from fender to fender, it remains relatively compact and trail-friendly. When closed, the roof height measures 106 inches; with the pop-top deployed, overall height increases to 120 inches, providing an interior standing height of 6 feet 6 inches—comfortable for individuals on the taller side.
Key Features
- Power-coated steel chassis
- All-terrain tires
- Cruisemaster suspension with auto leveling
- 20 inches of ground clearance
Interior and Exterior
- Maxxair 7500 overhead fan
- Tern Roof hatch window
- Rear pantry slide-out with 3-burner Furrion cooktop, stainless-steel sink, Truma Combi Eco Plus forced-air furnace for hot water and storage, and flip-down table
- Truma 96-liter, dual-zone fridge/freezer
- Wet bath with shower and toilet
- Fold-down rear steps with adjustable legs
- Bluetooth speakers
- Go Power solar panels (400 watts)
- Battleborn Gamechanger 3 lithium battery with 540 amp-hours
- Victor solar charge controller and inverter
- Optional extras include exterior showers, awning configurations, and luggage racks.
Why it stands out
The layout is well-designed, making it enjoyable to have indoor and outdoor living spaces. You can utilize the outdoor wet bath area and kitchen without opening the entire camper and popping the roof.
What could be improved?
While the fold-down staircase makes entry easy for most, those with limited mobility may find it slightly steep.
From $85,000 | boreascampers.com
BruderX EXP-7
BruderX is an Australian manufacturer based in Texas known for building expedition-grade trailers designed for extreme off-road travel and extended off-grid living. Bruder trailers are highly sought after, and an auction last year for a 2018 EXP-6 on Bring a Trailer fetched a staggering $82,000, clearly demonstrating the demand for a trailer of this caliber.
The EXP-7 is built on a heavy-duty chassis with a patented air-suspension system paired with vented hydraulic disc brakes for controlled stopping power. The interior kitchen opens to the outside and features a dual-burner induction cooktop, a stainless-steel sink, and a 57-liter fridge/freezer with drawers and storage. The interior also holds a queen bed, extensive storage with a hanging wardrobe, hydronic diesel heating, and a wet bath with a composting toilet.
These are not lightweight, budget-friendly campers, but purpose-built expedition trailers intended for travelers who demand total self-reliance in remote environments.
Weight and Dimensions
The EXP-7 has a dry weight of 6,000 pounds, putting this beast of a trailer in the heavyweight division. The axle capacity is an astonishing 11,464 pounds, but it’s important to note that the legal trailer mass is limited to 7,716 pounds. The body length measures 18 feet 9 inches long, 6 feet 28 inches wide, and 7 feet 54 inches high when closed. When the pop-top is open, it raises it to 8 feet 5 inches, and ground clearance is over 2 feet.
Key Features
- Alloy wheels with 305/60R18 mud-terrain tires and a spare
- Offroad coupling
- Rear winch compatibility and two rear tow recovery points
- Eight mono-tube, remote-canister shock absorbers
Interior and exterior
- HD smart TV
- Hydronic diesel-powered internal heating and hot water
- Dual internal and external showers
- Composting toilet and bathroom vanity
- Triple-filtered dust-reduction pressurization
- Large external pass-through storage
- Auto leveling system
- Lithium battery bank
- Inverter (3,000 watts)
- Solar panels (1,245 watts)
- Touchscreen power management system
- Two 50-meter electric side awnings
Why it stands out
The EXP-7’s proprietary air suspension system stands out as exceptional for off-road travel, wheel articulation, and leveling. The EXP-7 features a unique indoor/outdoor kitchen concept that opens the living space, eliminating the cramped feeling often associated with campers, and provides 360-degree access via a double-door system.
What can be improved?
The sheer weight of the trailer requires a heavy-duty 4×4 to tow it, and the cost is a major factor, especially when optional extras are added to the final tally of price and weight.
From $201,000 | bruderx.com
Lifestyle Campers Iconn E2 Elite Hypercamper
Lifestyle Campers, based in Australia, offer a wide range of off-road camper trailers, and two decades of experience have shaped its campers over time. The Iconn E2 Elite Hypercamper is a compact pop-top camper trailer designed for off-road capability, featuring a hot-dipped galvanized triple-drawbar chassis and independent suspension on 33-inch tires, while maintaining a modest interior living space. The E2 is manufactured with a lightweight composite-aluminum body and offers three configurations with a dinette, bunk beds, or a wet bath to suit couples or families.
The exterior includes a full-size entry door, a wind-out awning, and expanded external storage, along with a well-designed outdoor slide-out kitchen featuring a two-burner stove, a stainless-steel sink, prep, and storage areas. The interior features café-style seating with a slide-out bi-fold table, a queen-size innerspring mattress, and ample storage throughout the camper.
The Iconn E2 Elite Hypercamper is a compact, adaptable platform designed for couples or families, balancing genuine off-road capability with everyday livability for extended travel.
Weight and Dimensions
The Iconn E2 Elite has a dry weight of 4,034 pounds and a cargo capacity of 1,200 pounds, placing it squarely in the mid-range of its category. Measuring 18 feet 8 inches in length—long for a camper of this weight—along with a width of 6 feet 9 inches and a closed height of 7 feet, it maintains a relatively compact towing profile. When the pop-top is deployed, overall height increases to 9 feet 4 inches, providing generous interior headroom and a more open living space.
Key Features
- Cruisemaster DO35 off-road hitch
- ARK dual-tire jockey wheel
- Rear receiver
- Chassis and underbody sealed with StoneGuard anti-chip coating
- Independent coil spring suspension with shock absorbers
- Drop-down stabilizer legs
- Electric brakes
Interior and exterior
- Wind-out awning
- Swing-out kitchen
- External quick-release water outlet
- Flexible seating and sleeping configurations
- Lithium battery (200-amp-hour)
- Redarc Manager30 system
- Solar panels (600-watt)
Why it stands out
The low-profile design makes the trailer easy to tow when the roof is not deployed. Once the pop-top is raised, it significantly opens the interior, providing ample headroom and allowing the dinette area to convert into an additional sleeping platform without feeling cramped.
What can be improved?
While the taller pop-top roof offers clear interior space advantages, it may be more susceptible to wind and feel less stable in high-wind conditions; this is mere conjecture without a proper test of the unit, though.
From $53,000 | lifestylecampers.com.au
Opus Camper Lite
The Opus Camper Lite is a compact, lightweight inflatable pop-top trailer. Although inflatable tents were first developed in the 1950s and gained relatively short-lived popularity again in the 1980s, the resurgence of inflatable technology has once more emerged. This makes the Opus Lite a strong option for anyone with an SUV, crossover, or smaller 4×4 who wants to tow a generous living space without the added weight of a traditional camping trailer.
The Opus Camper Lite was designed with off-road capability in mind, featuring mud-terrain tires, gas shock absorbers, and trail stability provided by electric brakes, a trailer breakaway system, and four heavy-duty drop-down stabilizer legs when parked. An onboard 12-volt pump quickly inflates the interior living area, with seven air beams holding the tent structure upright once deployed. Inside, the camper features six large windows, a queen bed at one end, and a dinette that converts into an additional sleeping area.
The exterior slide-out kitchen includes a prep surface, a four-burner stove with sink, and a second slide-out housing a dual-zone fridge with adjacent storage. On the tongue, there is a 20-pound propane tank holder (tank not included) and two 2-gallon jerry can holders.
Weight and Dimensions
The Opus Lite has a dry weight of 2,380 pounds, making it one of the lightest trailers in its category. It measures 17 feet 2 inches long and 5 feet 6 inches wide. When closed, the Lite stands 4 feet 5 inches tall; once inflated, overall height increases to approximately 7 feet. An annex with detachable sidewalls can be added to the air tent, expanding the living space by 12 feet in length and 8 feet in width.
Key Features
- Galvanized steel chassis
- Independent trailing arm suspension
- Single coil dual shock absorbers
- Cruisemaster hitch
Interior and Exterior
- Noco Genius battery charger
- Bluetooth speaker system
- Shore power outlet
- AGM battery 100 amp-hour
- Optional extras such as a portable Zamp 140-watt solar panel, remote trailer mover, and articulating hitch.
Why it stands out
The obvious advantage is quick assembly, with setup achievable in under five minutes.
What could be improved?
Not necessarily an improvement, but the movement of the inflated nylon tent material may become a nuisance in windy conditions. A wet bath or shower would also be a welcome addition; however, the OP2 already includes this feature.
From $22,500 | opuscamper.us
Kimberley Kampers Karavan Classic
Kimberley Kampers, founded in 1994 in Kimberley, Australia, is a respected off-road RV brand that has sold more than 8,000 campers, caravans, and hybrid Karavans in over 17 countries worldwide. The Karavan Classic is a cleverly engineered hybrid caravan that combines a compact off-road towing footprint with a spacious expandable living area that deploys at the push of a button.
The Karavan’s body uses high-strength composite panels instead of timber framing for durability and lightweight strength. It rides on a hot-dipped galvanized chassis and adjustable airbag suspension with vented disc brakes with 16-inch all-terrain tires, designed to handle rugged terrain with confidence. The roof lifts via an actuator system with a manual wind backup for reliability.
The interior space features a fold-out wet bath with a waterless toilet and a Webasto hot-water system for a comfortable, warm shower. The kitchen area features an efficient induction cooktop and a visi-flow water system that can draw directly from external sources. The dinette has vegan leather seating and a slide-out deck that features a queen bed.
The exterior kitchen is well-appointed with a stainless steel sink, under-sink drawers, a folding prep area, and a slide-out two-burner stove. The tongue carries the SMART power system plus storage, along with two propane tanks and a utility basket for gear or firewood.
Weight and Dimensions
The Karavan has a dry weight of 3,700 pounds with a substantial payload of 5,500 pounds. When in travel mode, the Karavan is 17 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet 9 inches tall. Once the hybrid expansion is deployed, the camper’s length extends to 21 feet with an overall height of 10 feet, giving you the “caravan” experience but with off-road trail capability.
Key Features
- Five-year chassis and suspension warranty
- Adjustable airbag suspension
- Multi-height double jockey wheel
- Monotube shock absorbers
- Linak actuator lift system
- McHitch off-road easy hitch
- Electric over hydraulic vented disc brakes
Interior and Exterior
- Fridge/freezer (130-liter)
- Smart 48-volt power hub and control panel
- AC fast charger (3,000-watt)
- Pure sine inverter (3,600-watt)
- Smarts 48-volt lithium battery (2,000-watt-hour)
- Merlin Solar Tech 240-watt roof panels with MPPT regulator
- Bluetooth sound system
- Dual water tanks
What stands out
The expandable living space comfortably sleeps up to six people—a rare capability in a compact hybrid caravan.
What could be improved?
Some owners report inconsistent after-sales support, including delayed response times and follow-up.
From $88,000 | kimberleykampers.com.au
Bean Squared Trailer
Bean Trailer is a Utah-based company founded in 2016 and is well-known in the market for its teardrop trailers. In early 2025, the Bean Squared trailer was introduced, and we think it’s a gem. Bean Trailer stands by their reputation, guaranteeing that none of their trailers will leak (ever) and backs it with a limited lifetime roofline warranty (for specific models).
The exterior is a honeycomb composite body with aluminum structural framing and protected coatings, designed for rugged use, and features a slide-out kitchen with a cutting board, a collapsible sink, a Cook Partner two-burner stove, and an Iceco fridge. A 110-volt outlet and a hot-and-cold water quick-connect system sit alongside the kitchen slide. An additional “clip-on” kitchen table with sink and prep space cutouts can be connected to the kitchen slide-out, providing more workable space. The tongue holds one propane tank with a custom holder and features a telescoping tongue that can hold a dirt bike or additional gear.
The interior of the Bean Squared features an expanded push pop-top with removable, military-grade vinyl, providing ample living space with a queen bed, a convertible couch with under-bed storage, and a modular kitchen area with an induction cooktop, sink, fold-out table, and storage accessible from both inside and outside the trailer.
Weight and Dimensions
The Bean Squared has an approximate dry weight of 2,595 pounds, making it one of the lighter trailers in its category. It is roughly 12 feet 6.5 inches long, 90 inches wide, and 91 inches tall when closed. When equipped with the factory off-road suspension and 33-inch tires, ground clearance approaches 24 inches.
Key Features
- Cloud air suspension system (quick and easy to inflate/deflate)
- Adjustable airbags
- Fox reservoir shocks
- All-terrain 33-inch tires
- Articulating hitch couplers
Interior and Exterior
- Maxxfan for interior air flow
- EcoFlow Power Kit System
- Truma heating system
- Dual lockable front storage trunks
- MOLLE panels
- MaxTrax
- Retractable entry step
- Dual water tanks
Why it stands out
The reviews from buyers are commendable, with so many happy clients; the product speaks for itself. The color swatch option names are hilarious, with titles such as Alien Dawn, Zombie Sunset, People Eater, and Urine Trouble.
What could be improved?
As Squared was recently launched, very few reviews are available, but some consumers have cited the price point as being a limiting factor.
From $75,000 | beantrailer.com
Patriot Campers X1 GEN2
Patriot Campers is an Australian-based manufacturer with a US headquarters in Las Vegas and is widely considered a premium offering in the off-road trailer and camper market. The X1 Gen2 is a long-standing favorite among adventurers seeking a durable, well-built trailer that is genuinely capable on rugged terrain.
Designed with hard use in mind, the X1 Gen2 rides on a hot-dipped galvanized Rigilite chassis and rolls on 33-inch mud-terrain tires mounted to 17-inch PCOR Signature wheels. The exterior layout is thoughtfully executed, featuring a full slide-out kitchen with sink, cutlery drawer, Dometic two-burner stove, pop-up work surface, pantry storage, and space for a 75-liter fridge (not included). Up front, the tongue area features a large storage compartment with an integrated drawer system, while an additional rear drawer provides even more usable storage.
The CS3 integrated tent system uses a composite hard roof that expands at the push of a button. Once deployed, the durable canvas structure fully encloses a queen-size bed, offering approximately 6 feet of sleeping length and generous interior height. A dedicated changing area adds privacy and functionality, while removable zip-in floors create an extra protected living or sleeping space. Central locking enables a quick lock-up-and-go setup, a welcome feature for frequent travelers.
Weight and Dimensions
The X1 Gen2 has a dry weight of approximately 2,492 pounds, making it the second-lightest trailer in its class, given the level of equipment onboard. It measures 12 feet in length, 6 feet in width, and 6 feet 4 inches in height, with a 36-degree departure angle for improved trail clearance.
Key features
- Hot-dipped galvanized Rigilite chassis
- X-Cruise suspension system
- Flip-up jockey wheel
- Electric brakes
Interior and Exterior
- Redarc 200-watt solar panel
- Redarc Rogue Redvision system
- Solar panel (200-watt)
- Dual 150 amp-hour AGM or gel batteries
- Shore power capability
- Over 2,050 liters of storage capacity across the entire trailer
- Optional extras include a kids’ room attachment that sleeps four, a BBQ swing-away platform, and a hot water system.
Why it stands out
It delivers the comfort and refinement of a luxury camper while retaining the agility and simplicity of a trailer paired with a rooftop-style tent system.
What could be improved?
A wet bath or at least a dedicated space/shower cubicle for a portable toilet would be a welcome addition, particularly for families traveling with children.
From $72,900 (inclusive of tariffs and shipping to Vegas) | patriotcampers.com.au
Arkto Campers C10
Arkto Campers is a North American–made overland travel trailer brand based in Edmonton, Alberta, that manufactures well-thought-out, purpose-built trailers for off-road use.
The C10 sits on a hot-dipped galvanized steel chassis with a 75-year lifespan and is constructed from 1.5-inch-thick structural sandwich composite panels reinforced with aluminum tubing at key stress points, ensuring durability when traveling off-road or over rugged terrain. Thanks to its manageable weight, the C10 doesn’t demand a heavy-duty tow vehicle and remains within reach of many mid-size SUVs and lighter trucks.
The exterior slide-out kitchen features cutlery and storage drawers, a sink with hot and cold water, a dual-burner stove, a food pantry, and an interior-mounted 113-liter fridge/freezer. The outdoor shower also has hot and cold water supplied by the Truma AquaGo hot water system. It is one of the better-organized trailer kitchens for its size.
Inside, a wedge-style pop-top provides access to a queen bed with a 5-inch mattress on a raised platform that tilts up when not in use, so it doesn’t encroach on your interior space. The interior cabinetry is made from laser-cut aluminum and a powder-coated composite, ensuring no warping or friction-based breakages on trails. There is ample interior storage and under-seat space for an optional Wrappon electric toilet. Heating is provided by a Truma VarioHeat furnace, ideal for all-season travel.
Weight and Dimensions
The C10 has a dry weight of approximately 2,750 pounds, making it a lightweight trailer in its class. It measures 16 feet 8 inches in length, 6 feet in width, and 7 feet 5 inches in height when closed, with 21 inches of ground clearance. Once the pop-top is raised, the interior height is 6 feet 11 inches.
Key features
- Ark X0750 tongue jack
- Ark corner stabilizers
- Timbren Axle-Less HD suspension with 4-inch lift
- Max Coupler tri-axis off-road coupler
Interior and Exterior
- Maxxfan deluxe in the interior living space
- OVS 180-degree awning
- OVS shower enclosure
- Dual 100 amp-hour 12-volt SLA batteries
- Redarc RedVision Smart Battery management system
- Redarc TVMS Rogue distribution module
- Redarc Manager30
- MPPT solar charge controller
- Bike rack receiver tube
Why it stands out
The price point is more reasonable, and it offers an impressive amount of interior storage.
What can be improved?
The ability to cook indoors when the weather is foul would be welcome.
From $48,000 | arktocampers.com
Xpedition Trailers Voyager
Xpedition Trailers is a Utah-based manufacturer founded in 2019 by husband-and-wife team Artie and Stacy, off-road enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The company offers the all-season Voyager trailer in multiple trims: Voyager X, Voyager XE, and Voyager XEL, with each offering increased comfort and power, at a low price point as you move up the lineup.
Voyager trailers are built with zero-wood, all-aluminum construction and aircraft-inspired riveted engineering for strength and corrosion resistance. The optional Sky Portal upgrade adds a second-level interior access point to compatible rooftop tents, expanding living and sleeping space—particularly useful for families.
The Voyager’s rugged off-road chassis features an X-Ride independent A-Arm suspension, 31- to 35-inch all-terrain tires, and a heavy-duty roof rack with an impressive 1,000-pound capacity to access the roof and rooftop tent.
The Voyager’s exterior kitchen features dual slide-outs with a stainless-steel sink, dual-burner stove, and ample storage with cabinets, shelving, and drawers. The interior features a fully insulated living space with a Truma Combi Eco heating system. The cabin includes dual side doors, which is great for access for family, with the added feature of the Sky Portal hatch, which has direct access to the rooftop tent, along with a security hatch that can be closed from inside in order to prevent intruders from entering when you’re away from the trailer.
Weight and Dimensions
The Voyager has a dry weight of 2,600 pounds, making it into the lightweight category. The Voyager measures 16 feet in length, 89 inches in width, and 82 inches in height, making it compact and easy to tow behind most SUVs or smaller 4x4s. Rated at 4,200 pounds GVWR, the Voyager still leaves around 1,600 pounds for gear, water, and everyday travel essentials.
Key Features
- Maxcoupler 360-degree articulating hitch
- Heavy-duty Ark XO750 tongue jack
- Modular fender design
Interior and exterior
- Full-size spare tire and mount
- Dual lithium 115-amp-hour batteries
- Redarc RedVision TVMS power management system
- Maxxair fan
- Freshwater tank (36-gallon)
- Optional features include a shower port with hose and showerhead, thermal panels for the kitchen galley, and additional insulation beneath the battery compartment for extreme temperatures.
Why it stands out
The Voyager’s outdoor kitchen is large and well-designed with ample workspace and storage.
What can be improved?
When off-roading, the propane tank located on the side of the trailer may become a hindrance on tight trails.
From $49,900 | xpeditiontrailers.com
Taxa Outdoors Mantis
Taxa Outdoors, based in Texas, was founded in 2014 by former NASA architect Garrett Finney. The company has four trailers available, with the option to upgrade three of those models to off-road mode. The Mantis is constructed on a powder-coated steel chassis with 15-inch alloy wheels and approximately 29-inch all-terrain tires. In its standard configuration, the Mantis is designed for light off-pavement travel and campground use. If you’re looking to travel more off-road trails, the Overland Edition upgrades the trailer to an axle-less suspension for off-road use.
The Mantis cabin is manufactured with Kynar-painted, aluminum-composite exterior panels and can accommodate four adults. The interior of the Mantis features a full-size bed, a dinette that converts to a sleeping area, a galley kitchen with a sink, a two-burner stove, storage, and a prep area. The interior features a wet bath that accommodates an adult over 6 feet tall, with a flexible hose that can be used indoors and outdoors. The water system consists of onboard fresh water storage supplying the sink and wet bath, with pressurized delivery suitable for basic off-grid use.
Weight and Dimensions
The Mantis has a dry weight of 3,115 pounds with a cargo capacity of 986 pounds, placing it between the lightweight and mid-range trailer categories. It measures 19 feet in length, 7 feet 6 inches in width, and 6 feet 9 inches in height when closed. When the pop-up roof is deployed, the exterior height increases to approximately 9 feet 10 inches.
Key Features
- Torsion axle
- Electric brakes
- Quad stabilizer jacks
- Steel gravel guards
Interior and Exterior
- Quick-disconnect 8-foot awning
- Thule Evo 175 adjustable load bars
- Rear ladder for roof storage access
- Roof tracks for cargo accessories or rack mounts
- Air conditioner
- Recycled ripstop polyester tent
- Truma Combi Eco furnace
- Two 20-pound propane tanks with a cover
- Victron BMV-712 Smart voltmeter
- Victron 75/15 SmartSolar Bluetooth charge controller
- WFCO 400-amp Auto-Detect Power Center
Why it stands out
The multiple windows make it feel open and airy, and the lightweight build means it’s easy to tow. On top of that, it’s priced well compared to other campers in the same size range.
What can be improved?
While the minimalist design is appealing, the trailer’s distinctive aesthetic might be better complemented by an alternative to polypropylene crate-based storage. Ground clearance is more limited, so keep it on well-maintained gravel roads if not opting for the off-road option.
From $45,750 | taxaoutdoors.com
Exodus Rigs Capax
Exodus Rigs was founded by a father-and-son fabrication team, Shaddi and Fareed Gohar, from which the Capax was born. The Capax is a premium trailer aimed at families seeking off-road capability paired with high-end luxury. Its premium features, finishes, and overall attention to detail are immediately apparent.
The Capax is built on a riveted aluminum chassis and rides on axle-less air suspension with 16-inch premium aluminum wheels and two spare tires. With nearly 20 inches of ground clearance, it is capable of traversing rugged terrain, although its overall length may be a limitation on tighter trails. The hard-sided pop-top design is operated via two smart monitors inside the trailer. Construction includes TransCore panels, dual-pane windows, and smart locks on all doors and compartments.
Generous storage capacity combined with a powerful electrical system allows the Capax to support extended off-grid living. The camper features dual entry points, enabling access to most amenities without fully opening the trailer—ideal for picnics, quick bathroom stops, or grabbing gear at the lake.
The indoor bathroom includes a marine-grade teakwood floor and is complemented by an outdoor hot-and-cold shower. The indoor kitchen features a stove-and-sink combination, a double-drawer refrigerator and freezer, and a microwave. Outside, the kitchen adds additional storage, a slide-out table, a pantry, a sink, and a three-burner stove.
Weight and Dimensions
The Capax has a gross vehicle weight rating of 7,750 pounds and a cargo carrying capacity of 1,000 pounds. It measures 265 inches in towing length and 236 inches when the pop-top is collapsed, with an exterior width of 101 inches. Fully deployed, it stands 119 inches tall and offers an interior height ranging from 81 to 89 inches.
Key Features
- Integrated rig shell architecture
- Electric trailer brake
- Rig auto-leveling system
- Articulating hitch
Interior and Exterior
- Dual-access bar area
- Storage of 118.67 cubic feet
- Dual-access bedding storage from the exterior
- Safe box and bar
- Tools compartment
- Solar panels (800-watt)
- Lithium battery (400-amp-hour)
What stands out:
A convertible interior with a dual-access layout for the kitchen, bathroom, and storage areas allows easy transitions between travel and camp modes. Due to its size, this camper trailer is more suited to off-grid living than off-road travel.
What could be improved?
The Capax relies heavily on electronic systems. Electric stabilizers and powered roof mechanisms may be difficult to troubleshoot or repair in remote environments, particularly for owners who are not technically inclined.
From $120,000 | exodusrigs.com
Resources List
Epik RV, based in Ohio, has two interesting design concepts for rugged, adventure-ready off-road trailers. Their Ranger model is highly capable on rough trails, thanks to its 33-inch all-terrain tires and a low dry weight of 3,500 pounds. The hard-sided pop-up roof and mechanical slide-outs feature a fully fitted kitchen, dinette area, ample storage, and a wet bath, making it a convenient space for up to four people.
From $67,200 | epikrv.com
Black Series Campers is an Australian camper trailer manufacturer that recently launched its 2026 HQ12 trailer, featuring a galvanized steel chassis, 16-inch off-road tires, and StoneGuard protection. With the pop-up roof, it expands the living space to include a bunk bed and a double bed, a full bathroom, and premium features such as a microwave and both indoor and outdoor kitchens. With a lifetime warranty on the chassis, this looks to be a great choice for adventurers.
From $50,000 | blackseries.net
Atlas Outdoors is a Utah-based manufacturer specializing in rugged, all-aluminum off-road trailers, such as the TetonX. The TetonX features an aluminum 2×5 steel chassis and 35-inch tires, weighing 3,200-3,400 pounds on average. With the pop-top raised, the interior ceiling height reaches 6 feet 8 inches and includes a convertible dinette, bunk beds, and an optional rear-mounted rooftop tent. Front and rear kitchens feature an integrated fridge/freezer, a slide-out table, a pantry, and a two-burner stove, with extensive customization options available.
From $57,000 | atlasoutdoorsusa.com
MDC USA, an Australian company with headquarters in California, offers the heavy-duty Robson XTT MKII. This dual-fold overland pop-up camper has an approximate dry weight of 3,940 pounds and features a galvanized chassis, aluminum frame, fiberglass composite floor, and aluminum composite panels throughout. When expanded, it can accommodate up to six with dual beds and a convertible club lounge. Exterior features include a slide-out kitchen with a 3-burner cooktop, sink, and fridge, making it ideal for comfortable adventure-focused travel.
From $50,000 | mdcusa.com
Cube Series’ Ultra-Lightweight Trailer is built using industry-grade aluminum, resilient composites, and numerous alloys as primary components, with a base weight of just 2,730 pounds. The interior features a convertible dinette that converts to an 80-inch sleeper, a built-in microwave, an optional wet bath with toilet and shower, gear racks, and ample storage space. A classic design meets a spacious, innovative interior, perfect for off-grid adventures.
From $55,000 | cubeseries.com
Forest River is a major North American RV manufacturer with a broad lineup that spans travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, and truck campers. The Flagstaff Hardside Series includes several models designed with coziness and simplicity in mind for adventure-focused travelers. The T21HSB model features durable construction elements, such as a diamond-plate front and a fiberglass-laminated roof. The interior includes raised panel cabinetry, a gaucho/bed, a bunk bed, and a toilet. Other conveniences include a hot water package with an outside spray port and a core convenience package with a 12-volt refrigerator, paired with a furnace, AC, and aluminum wheels, making it a well-rounded option for comfortable, lightweight camping.
From $33,000 | forestriverinc.com
ALiner’s Expedition Camper is great for families who want a more spacious interior without removing any practicality. The A-frame hard-sided camper has a dry weight of 1,985 pounds, making it towable by the average-sized car. The all-terrain camper with reinforced frames features a front and rear bed, a refrigerator, a stove, a microwave, a sink, and a shower-toilet combo. Additional options include high-wind lift assist, a bike rack receiver, 400-watt rigid solar panels, and more customization options.
From $35,000 | aliner.com
Camp365 is a Minnesota-based manufacturer known for its durable Model T expandable camper. It has a hard-wall composite construction and dual-layer insulation for hot and cold conditions. Inside are multiple folding beds, including a queen, twin, and bunk beds, allowing it to sleep up to six. It also features an interior/exterior prep table, stainless-steel three-burner internal/external cooking, a stainless-steel sink, a toilet mount with privacy curtain, an optional instant hot water shower, and over 700 cubic feet of living and storage space, making it an accessible option for a family.
From $26,000 | camp365.com
SylvanSport’s Go camping trailer is built for durability, featuring a TIG-welded aluminum frame, diamond-plate deck, and a custom-tuned Dexter torsion axle for stress-free travel. The Go camping trailer has three modes: Travel Mode, a lightweight design towable by nearly any vehicle; Transport Mode, featuring an integrated roof rack that carries over 800 pounds of gear such as bikes, kayaks, and other adventure equipment; and Camper Mode, which expands into a spacious tent sleeping up to four with flexible sleeping and dining setups.
From $14,000 | sylvansport.com
Chalet Inc. is a US manufacturer specializing in hard-sided A-frame travel trailers designed for easy towing, quick setup, and comfort. The lineup includes lightweight LTW models, mid-size Classic series, and larger XL A-frames, all featuring insulated composite construction, patented roof-lift systems, and standard kitchens with a fridge, cooktop, sink, and furnace. These campers sleep 2-4 adults with flexible bed and dinette layouts, with optional upgrades such as solar prep, off-road packages, wet baths, and more for versatile outdoor adventures.
From $24,500 | chaletinc.com
Jumping Jack Trailers of Utah converts heavy-duty utility trailers into quick-setup tent campers in under five minutes, blending rugged hauling with comfortable camping. Standard features include a sleeping area with ample headroom, large screened windows, a swing-up interior table, and accessory options for shade, storage, and gear organization. Available in multiple sizes with customizable configurations, these trailers can haul ATVs and gear while providing a versatile camping base for a wide range of adventures.
From $9,000 | jumpingjacktrailers.com
Australia-based
Off Road Designs is known for building rugged, purpose‑built off‑road camper trailers designed to handle Australia’s challenging Outback conditions. Their RASV (Remote Area Support Vehicle) Off‑Road Camper trailer features a reinforced chassis, heavy-duty independent coil-spring suspension, high-clearance off-road tires, waterproof seals, and military-inspired construction for durability and corrosion resistance. Standard equipment includes a rooftop tent, ample storage, slide-out fridge space, a water tank and pump, advanced battery and solar management, a kitchen work table, LED lighting, and a 270-degree awning, with optional upgrades for serious off-grid exploration.
From $47,000 | offroaddesigns.com.au
Terra Trek Australia designs and manufactures expedition trailers ready to hit the trails. The Terra Trek Expedition “TTE” range features a laser-cut, hot-dip galvanized chassis with patented cross-arm suspension and mud-terrain tyres. Storage is cavernous, with multiple lockers, a slide-out kitchen, and ample rear cargo capacity. The custom hard-shell rooftop tent sets up quickly and features a double mattress made from Weathermax fabric, large screened windows, a verandah, and an optional changing room/kids’ bedroom attachment.
From $42,000 | terratrek.com.au
Ultimate Campers, based in Australia, offers the award-winning Xscape camper trailer, known for its innovative and compact design. Built for rugged use, the exterior features include a stainless-steel outrigger leg kit, a rear bumper storage box, and a stainless-steel BBQ shelf. Inside, the U-shaped lounge with optional leather, a full drawer system, a swing table, a PVC splashback, and carbon benchtops creates a comfortable interior. A king-sized Ezi Fold memory foam mattress, premium canvas with a 360-degree awning, and breakfast bar dial in a nice blend of comfort and adventure.
From $63,000 | ultimatecampers.com.aud
These trailers have a larger footprint than most camping trailers and, when paired with a stand-alone rooftop tent, are comparable in overall size to several of the trailers listed above.
Turtleback Trailers is a Tennessee-based manufacturer offering a range of models, including the Expedition Series Travel Trailer, the largest in its lineup. Built on a galvanized steel chassis with all-terrain tires, it is designed for rugged terrain. Features include ample storage with drawers and a roof rack, plus a slide-out kitchen with a stove and sink for outdoor cooking. Available upgrades include premium suspension, tents, awnings, and added storage, making it a durable yet compact option for off-the-beaten-path travel that appeals to serious overlanders and expeditioners alike.
From $45,000 | turtlebacktrailers.com
Expedition Trailers, based in Missouri, offers the award-winning Offtrax Feenix, an off-road camper trailer built on a Cruisemaster XT suspension. This trailer includes a slide-out kitchen with a 2-burner stove, stainless steel sink, under-slide bench, fridge slide, storage slide, and 2x pantry drawers. This trailer is perfect for demanding terrain and remote camping without compromise.
From $42,000 | expeditiontrailers.com
OEM Overland Trailer, based in Utah, focuses on sustainability by repurposing truck beds to reduce waste, save energy, and lower carbon footprints. These platforms are transformed into heavy-duty and rugged trailers, giving travelers the flexibility to specify chassis, suspension, cargo capacity, and accessory integration. This approach appeals to overlanders and builders who want a robust foundation for custom expeditions or uniquely outfitted trailers.
From $8,000 | oemoverlandtrailer.com
VMI Offroad, based in Washington state, manufactures the Canyon Gen II 68, a 10-foot-long, all-welded aluminum off-road trailer fitted with 15-inch all-terrain tires and a dry weight of 1,975 pounds. The roof is raised with a dual-gas-strut-assist, rear-hinged roof-raising system, and the interior features include a bench seat that converts into a queen bed, optional bunk beds, a fridge/freezer, interior storage, a cassette toilet, and a rear galley that can be relocated inside for different climates.
From $29,950 | vmioffroad.com
Moab Trailers, based in Arizona, offers the Outpost, a zinc-plated steel-frame trailer with a dry weight of 1,450 pounds that can sleep up to six. It uses an OZ Trail tent rather than a rooftop tent and is built for off-road durability with a torsion axle, 31” off-road tires, locking enclosed cargo space, and multiple rack options. Available add-ons include awnings, galley systems, water solutions, lighting, solar, and suspension upgrades, making it adaptable for weekend camping or fully equipped overland adventures.
From $16,000 | moabaz.com
Read More: How to Buy a Rig on Bring-a-Trailer
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