Overland Classifieds :: 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon AEV Camper

I’ve become somewhat obsessed with micro-campers after being inspired by several builds, including this 2013 Wrangler Sahara Unlimited with Ursa Minor pop-top system. The further I travel in my vehicle, the more I value time and experiences above all else, and I believe micro campers are a great option to maximize both. Allow me to explain. Most of us travel on a budget, so choosing the right vehicle is imperative. If, like me, you select a thirsty and often unreliable rig like my 1986 VW T3 Syncro; then you’ll need to set aside a considerable chunk of your budget for running costs and emergency repairs. Moreover, the bigger the vehicle, the more you’ll pay at tolls, on ferries, and sometimes campsites. In addition, a vintage or larger rig will have a slower cruising speed, which means reaching destinations will take longer, thus wasting valuable time. Further still, a compact 4WD will reach remote spots that larger vehicles wouldn’t dare, granting access to truly magical off-grid locations. Converting a compact truck such as a Toyota 4Runner, Izusu Trooper, Mitsubishi Montero, or indeed a Jeep Wrangler into a micro-camper is an excellent solution. These vehicles are often cheap to buy, relatively economical to run, comfortable at higher speeds, very capable, and provide enough space to sleep inside comfortably. In addition, a wide array of innovative storage solutions from the likes of Goose Gear will quickly transform a family wagon into a rolling home.

It’s worth noting that another benefit of a micro-camper is that if the camping set-up is modular, it can be quickly removed and returned to a stock 4WD that’s practical as a daily driver. Sure, there are compromises on comfort and amenities (which can be addressed with a more expensive truck and pop-top camper set-up), but if you want to see as much as possible on a limited budget, this is a great option. The Wrangler is a popular platform for builds with recent examples, including a 2019 Unlimited Overland Build, 2007 Unlimited with a Cummins 4BT, and a 2013 AEV Sahara with a Smittybilt Scout. Today’s low mileage (97,5xx miles) showcases a long list of premium modifications and a tasteful camper conversion.

From the Seller:

We built this Jeep while my wife was working all over the country for a few months at a time; it allowed us to explore destinations around the cities she was based. There are a ton of highway miles on this rig, as we are Charlotte, NC, based and mostly worked out west, crossing the country six times and keeping to roughly a 300-mile radius for our adventures every weekend. The camper was built with us in mind; we are 5’8” and 5’4” and can sleep very comfortably in this rig. I would not recommend it for someone who is too much taller. This rig is awesome! Why are we selling it? We recently welcomed a baby girl into the family, so I built a van for us to enjoy.”

2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon AEV Camper

The Wrangler is fitted with a 3.6-litre motor that produces 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and returns a respectable 17/23 mpg (city/highway). A relatively frugal engine is matched with legendary capability thanks to 4WD, body-on-frame design, front and rear locking differentials, skid plates, high and low range, intelligent onboard systems, Hill Descent Control, and more. Inside, the Rubicon showcases a well-equipped interior with driver comforts that include:

  • Leather interior
  • Trailer Tow and HD Electrical Group
  • Uconnect infotainment system with navigation, 8.4-inch
  • Remote start
  • Jeep Active Safety Group

Distinguishing Features

  • AEV Dual Sport suspension
  • AEV Pintler wheels with BFGoodrich KM3 tires
  • Rhino-Rack roof rack
  • Warn winch
  • WeBoost cell phone range extender
  • Engel 45-litre fridge
  • Goal Zero 1500X lithium battery

This 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon AEV camper is listed for $40,500 and is currently located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.


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No money in the bank, but gas in the tank. Our resident Bikepacking Editor Jack Mac is an exploration photographer and writer living full-time in his 1986 Vanagon Syncro but spends most days at the garage pondering why he didn’t buy a Land Cruiser Troopy. If he’s not watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, he can be found mountaineering for Berghaus, sea kayaking for Prijon, or bikepacking for Surly Bikes. Jack most recently spent two years on various assignments in the Arctic Circle but is now back in the UK preparing for his upcoming expeditions—looking at Land Cruisers. Find him on his website, Instagram, or on Facebook under Bicycle Touring Apocalypse.