Airstream redesigns its original aluminium construction into a sleek Basecamp trailer

As the new generation of SUVs and pick up vans are shedding weight and inches the next to follow are the camping trailers who are getting sleeker and more compact to appeal to the modern roads. The latest in the market is the aluminium Airstream Basecamp trailer which is actually a revamped re-launched version of a trailer that was discontinued a few years ago.  This re-launch actually opened the way for more compact and lightweight trailers for multi-days outing in wilderness.

As reported the Basecamp was actually created in collaboration with Nissan more than ten years ago. According to Airstream's PR team the first Basecamp was pulled after a few years’ trial when the market wasn't right. After long market research and redesigning of the vehicle, which entirely different from the original nest-based Airstream, now Airstream feels the market is right for the small, sleek Basecamp.


 
Airstream Basecamp trailer is much different and compact from a V8-powered pickup truck or full-size SUV. It aims at becoming a trailer small enough to shadow an AWD crossover. The interior space isn't very spacious as it was not designed for a buyer who would spend the entire trip auto-touring and sitting inside an aluminium shell relaxing. It is meant for traveling and the owner can park it at the campsite and spend the day outside. The trailer is perfect as a place to have food and sleep off after a day is spent on hiking, surfing, biking, climbing or whatever.
 
As put by Airstream's CEO and president Bob Wheeler, "It's easy to get slowed down and overwhelmed by the detailed planning of and the packing for an adventure. We've all been there, and before you know it, you're overwhelmed and putting the trip on the back burner. With its lighter weight and easier towing experience, Basecamp is a fully loaded adventure waiting to happen. All you need to do is head out and decide whether to go right or left at the end of your driveway."

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The exterior of the 16.3-ft Basecamp has a neat look with an aluminium-clad shell with dark, wraparound glass. The shape is like a box trailer, but the subtle curvy design of the roofline and the rear gives an idea of a teardrop. The design is much contemporary and stylish as compared to the original 2005 model.

The added features of the new model are the full wet bath with removable handheld shower and china toilet and the standard Bose SoundLink Color Bluetooth speaker. Weight has also been trimmed down to 1,173 kg compared with the 2007 model which weighed 1,247 kg.
The single rear hatch doesn't offer much loading room but good enough to get bikes, boards and boats on board easily. The multifunctional living/sleeping/dining is good enough and can be tweaked according to purpose.
 
The centrally located bathroom is designed to function as a shower and is designed in Airstream's iconic aluminium panelling, as are the walls around the entire cabin. The kitchen area with a two-burner stove, refrigerator, stainless steel sink and laminate top gives a nice, open view. A microwave is available as an option.

The Basecamp has a deep-cycle battery and comes prewired for an optional 160 W solar package. It offers Truma heater/hot water unit, fans, fresh water tank, LP tanks and LED lighting as standard. Air conditioning is available optionally.
 
The Basecamp will be available for sale at Airstream dealerships in October, and reservations are being taken now.