Let me explain. Growing up in Africa, I had one dream and one dream only: to grow up to be a cowboy. At the age of eight, I spent my time playing with my Lego cowboy set, watching cowboy movies, and reading Louis L’Amour’s books. Some of the most daring overlanders in history have been the pioneers who crossed the Atlantic Ocean and set off for the Pacific in their iconic covered wagons. The Spec Ops Crashpad from Let’s Go Aero reminds me of a covered wagon with its rounded lid, canvas walls, and ribbed construction; perhaps the designer was inspired by the wagons that arguably changed the world.
The CrashPad Aero is a modular camping trailer designed for overland travel. It combines the SpecOps cargo trailer with the CrashPad camper upfit kit, offering a versatile solution for both hauling and camping needs. The SpecOps trailer features a galvanized steel construction with a 2,000-pound payload capacity. Its bed dimensions are 86 inches long, 54 inches wide, and 24 inches high, with an overall length of 121 inches, a width of 74 inches, and a height of 45 inches. The trailer rides on 29-inch radial truck tires, mounted on 15-inch black rims, which provide a ground clearance of 20 inches, making it suitable for off-road conditions.
The CrashPad upfit kit transforms the open-bed trailer into a hard-shell camper. It includes the HexCap hard shell tonneau cover, a modular tent, interior decking, and rear-end gate accessories. The HexCap is made from a 0.5-inch-thick polypropylene composite, offering UV resistance and weatherproofing. It measures 86 inches in length, 56 inches in width, and 18 inches in height, and weighs 55 pounds. The cover, which may or may not be arrow-proof, is supported by gas spring lifts and secured with adjustable rear draw latches.
The tent component attaches to the raised tonneau cover and end gate using heavy-duty Velcro. It features two side zippered windows and a large entry door with a screened window, providing ventilation and protection from the elements. An overhead awning offers additional shade and rain shelter. The tent fabric is made from UV-treated 185-denier polyester Cordura with a polyurethane coating, achieving a 2,000-millimeter waterproof rating.
Inside, a modular deck platform creates two levels of cargo and sleeping space. The upper level measures 75 inches in length and 54 inches in width, accommodating two adults. The deck is supported by five steel beams that clip into the trailer’s sidewall channels and are rated to support up to 400 pounds. The space beneath the deck provides 21 inches of storage height for gear.
The rear-end gate is upgraded with hinges and support cables, allowing it to function as a seating platform or side table. A custom upholstered foam pad is included for added comfort. The gate can also be repositioned to serve as a side table, facilitating cooking and equipment organization. I bet the pioneers would have loved this little wagon’s functionality.
The complete Spec Ops CrashPad package is priced at $8,198. For existing SpecOps or LittleGiant trailer owners, the CrashPad upfit kit is available separately for $2,999 or $1,499 without the HexCap cover.
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