Camper/tent trailers which one?

[outback]

Ok I have sent some time looking at camper trailers and tent trailers.
In the end it seems to come down to lots of points re their build and what can be added/included. Lots of options out there and it is not always easy to pick it right at camper shows.
Also the big issue is what is a real off rod vs. what is just a basic dirt road unit.

My current caravan has it limit, it is a full height van and won't go everywhere, height and weight restrictions.

Given some of the threads re camper vans/tent trailers, it would seems some makers are best avoided cf. cost vs. the bad end result.

I have looked at Jayco and though they seem OK it's weight issue. Beside why replace a caravan with another caravan, poptop or otherwise.
One thing against Jayco and their off roaders is wheel size, too small.

So has any one got some recommendations on a good off road tent trailer style van/poptop

I don’t need lots it's only me, myself and I. Me, I am more concerned about me, the other 2 can find some other accommodation at night.



Added:
Hitch options:
DO35
Trigg
Ball

Current van had DO35 hitch.

[FNQGU]

You might want to say what sort of price range you are thinking about. Soo many options out there really.

For me, I want to keep the camping side pretty simple, and light weight, and am hoping to pick up either an old T-van without the big box on the front, or one of the new Patriot trailers. Both have different sleeping arrangements, but are awesome for suspension (off-road ability) and pretty light when not optioned up too much. I don't need a big kitchen, or monster fridge and three batteries to run everything though, so you may need to offer up a few more specs that you are looking for.

[BigRAWesty]

I'm with Ben, you don't go camping and drag a house with you. If you want that go a motel lol..

So imo KISS.

Have you looked at hard floor or full tent trailers?
Imo a lot more off road capability than a van. And smaller so less drag and damage worries.

[Drewboyaus]

How many times a year do you expect to use it? I had been considering buying one for a while but at the price just can't justify the spend for the number of times a year I'd use it. Even less justification when you can hire one for 200 bux for a long weekend. Most of my camping is done with a tent in the high country, rarely need the full camper setup (because I like to travel light) but I guess that's just me and my 2c Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[megatexture]

When looking at anything with smaller tyres see if you can do a axle under leaf swap to fit larger tyres, I did it with ours and now run 33's on our camper (customline) to match the gu.
Also don't be fooled into thinking you need all this independent suspension on it either, not many of them actually give you any more clearance than a solid axle.
Though I like hard floor campers most have little to no storage space inside them after the tent gets packed up compared to a soft floor with the tent on top the trailer.

Even if it cost $2k extra to get a gal trailer IMO it's well worth it also, and Don't be afraid to buy 2nd hand also there are some bargains out there.

[BillsGU]

I often get asked this question as I have had caravans and campers for many years. It is a very individual decision as every body has different requirements. One piece of advice I give to everyone is once you have decided on what you want, hire one. IF it does not suit you you wont be stuck with something you don't really want. Most places that sell them will rent one to you and if you buy it they will deduct the rental cost from the price. Anyone that thinks any type of trailer will go seriously off road is kidding themselves. The damage you will eventually do to the trailer and your car is nor worth it. Also the stress on you and those with you can be a worry. Don't believe the Roothy videos you see. They have a mountain of support when they get in trouble and all the damage is paid for by the company. Just my two bobs worth.

[threedogs]

Some ppl are asking Huge $$$ for a trailer and a tent,
$30,000 plus is ridiculas for a trailer and Tent IMO
Bob just updated to a Jayco and tows that everywhere

[outback]

Price range not too fussed.
Amount of time out: As much as possible, no SWMBO so no restrictions.

The last time I looked at one and made an order, it was a special build about $12,000. Cancelled that part way through the build and bought one of their caravans. Could have had both but I was not too keen on parting with about $80,000 plus at the time.

In essence still considering a trailer but it may end up being a special build again.

As for the rent before you buy, I would agree a good move. That is something I intend to look at before I do anything on the order/purchase side. It's just a matter of seeing what is commercially around and doing a few tests.

The other option is a second 4x4, (brand unspecified), setting it up as a self contained, draws, on board tanks, awnings, (poss rooftop tent), etc and using that. Provides flexibility and no trailer to worry about.
That leaves my 3l Di patrol for normal work.
The only gripe with this idea is that all the decent Patrols for sale are on the eastern seaboard, NSW/QLD. SA seems stuck with the 3l engine and most are autos as well.

I am I no big hurry as this is not a cheep exercise.

[FNQGU]

You could always outfit a Troopy or something? e.g. - this blokes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riMTgFHr7GY

or a podded up Patrol ute?

[outback]

You could always outfit a Troopy or something? e.g. - this blokes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riMTgFHr7GY

Nice outfit and interesting some of the bits he included. Food for thought.

That is something along the lines i had in mind for a self-contained 4x4.

[QOUTE]or a podded up Patrol ute?[/QUOTE]
That was a semi option.

Still thinking on this. To some extent the camper trailer has limits and the single vehicle unit has better options.