Off Road Campers. This section will walk you through all the camper types! This Blue Tongue Overland XF Lite Series 2 is a well-priced camper. The roof edges are made of plastic material that appears very thin and fragile. The capacity of the water tank should be enough for all the members. (image credit: Brendan Batty). The Cub Frontier is the only fully Australian-made forward folding camper which has the best tent set-up, plus simple and comfortable features in a light trailer. What's been recalled and why. 2023All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. my Alpha 18 months This Australian built rear-fold camper comes at the best value of about $29,490. Dont Forget Your Camping Buddy! With Slide out gas stove and kitchen. The body is made using laser cut and powder coated Australian steel to provide strength and durability. He now enjoys exploring the U.S. by a fifth wheel & a truck with his wife. It features road tires so that the muddy and tricky terrains don't use your journey. twice incl. Let's help you on the journey to find the best camper trailer for your next adventure! Fifth Wheel RV - This is similar to a Class C RV but is not equipped with an engine. A new VIN plate could be cause for alarm. Camping essentials for your next road trip and where you can buy them, Make staying at home more enjoyable with these products and tips, How to be more eco-friendly when you're gifting this Christmas. Even if not your topmost priority, storage should be one of your considerations. 4. It could be shocking to many to see the name of Dutchmen Coleman in this list of RV brands to avoid. You hit the road. Let's take a look. You can technically call it an apartment on wheels! Inadequate insulation causes water leakage. The Compact van . The living space is more than we need, but it is nice to have all that space in the evening where we can relax in insect free comfort. Our automotive experts are here to help, If you're wondering, we've probably got the answer. Is The Waeco CF50 Fridge As Good As They Say? * Buckled rims cost of new rims. ADDRESS & WEBSITE. Camper trailers also come in small quantities from South Africa and very small numbers from the USA. Fleetwood: Bad customer service, water leaks, poor fabrics . 2023 Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers: Airstream: 4.3/5.0: . Gulfstream may as well offer an open-roof on all their RVs, as this brand is notorious for leaks with its newer-year models. Ive had nothing but multiple issues just like many others. 12 Best Travel Trailer Brands To Consider In 2021. Latest review: We are really happy with Sean's service and enjoy the camper too. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. Since buying a camper is a substantial financial commitment, you must be aware of the RV brands to avoid, so you can get the most for your money. Or email: enquiries@opuscamper.com.au. Conversely, more expensive trailers may have less features. Are all electrics (plugs, wiring etc) neat, tidy and safely functioning? Items like water tanks, suspension components, tyres, bearings and electrical components have often been weak points in Chinese-built campers, but quality in these areas have been points of pride amongst the Australian industry. Australian made may need a little more explanation, as it is a claim many companies make. However I had ordered and paid deposit for a brand new Alpha back in October and was given a Feb delivery d, We are really happy with Sean's service and enjoy the camper too. Using low-quality materials that can rust easily. Our favourite camper trailers from the Escapod are from their Topo series. However, Craig does only have capacity to make 45 a year, so you might have to wait a bit for yours. Whether youre hiking, car camping, or caravanning, youll need supplies for your getaway. I have camped, Latest review: We bought our first camper trailer last September at Maitland 4x4 & Camping show. Fleetwood. Check the paint work on non-galvanised chassis and drawbar; a powdercoat finish is plenty tough enough for touring and camping; hammertone is also hard wearing anything else can be a bit of a compromise. The manufacturer has put together off-road tires, storage, and a double bed to make sure you have a pleasant time. The heater vent under the dinette is incorrectly aligned? How The myCOOLMAN Fridge Range Stacks Up Review. RV manufactures warranty periods are the biggest failure in the industry. Cargo like water tanks (you should aim to have at least 100L with you), jerry cans, a generator, and gas bottles can take up a lot more room than you think. Glad we opted for two gas bottles and stone guard. her trailer fixed under warranty. Unfortunately, finding a camper with all accessories and modifications can be tricky. There are difficulties in using the control board of these trailers. The brand offers a diverse range of forward folds, soft floors, dual folds, and hybrid caravans. Fleetwood has been a leading and trusted brand in RV manufacturing for over six decades. What travel trailers brands to avoid in 2021: Forest River t ravel trailer brand: 45%. In touring form its great for travellers who move often or those who want a lightweight off-road camper trailer. These Aussie camper trailers come in bright colours and are among the least expensive on the market. Don't buy at the caravan shows . Additionally, users complain about poor-quality construction and materials. Most reputable imported camper trailers nowadays should stand the test of time and if properly maintained, hold their value. Camper trailers are generally less luxurious than caravans, but it all boils down to what you prefer - some people love having the extra comfort of a solid roof and walls, while others feel closer to natures sights and sounds in their trailer. These are absolute cheap nasty rubbish camper trailers. The Jayco camper range is perfect for families. If you are looking for a camper trailer I can highly recommend you visit Matt at his Bibra Lake facility, and join the Bigfoot Facebook owners page, you won't be fissapointed.- Rob G. a year ago . But worry not! Gibb River Rd and has held up well. 4.5 from 11 reviews. The classic and reliable build of the Airstream Basecamp is perfect if you are looking for a camper trailer that will live for years to come. Image Credits: Timberlead Pika Trailer Camper for Buyers On a Budget. Discover the advantages. 2. While leaks are a serious matter, other problems include locks on doors and hatches not staying secure. Proper Ford Everest rival inbound! After all, you don't want to end up spending on something that will no longer be functional after a couple of years. Our database has the answer, Everything you need to know to keep you and your family as safe as possible, Helpful advice before you finance your next car, Tips for getting the right insurance and how to make a claim, Everything you need to know when sizing up your new car. Simple, strong, small and light-weight, it's enduringly easy to set up and pack up with just enough comfort for two. With about 15 years in RV living, road tripping, Scott now uses this experience as a travel blogger. The leading Australian manufacturers and pioneers of the Camper Trailer Industry of Australia have formed a Guild of Members to help guide potential consumers of the pitfalls that can . Latest review: I purchased a Trak Shak back in 2012 and I initially had concerns regarding the quality as I had heard that it had dropped. They cost lower as compared to hotels and rental accommodations. Their extensive range of models are all hard floor and cater for couples, up to large families; and range in price from $10k - $45k+. Chaoyang. Are you looking for camping equipment that can keep your drink cold and food fresh for a long time? Its latest models are also incredibly innovative. Camping gear has unsurprisingly been at the top of a lot of shopping lists this summer. Patriots are expedition-style trailers with great storage options, an excellent kitchen and innovative features and have one a stack of awards. Your hunt for a travel buddy is all set to come to an end with the Bruder EXP 6 Camper. However, it was once a great RV brand to buy from because of its admirable performance and reliability. (image credit: Brendan Batty). It doesnt matter how good the materials used are if theyve all been linked together in a chain of poor construction. Cruisemaster D035 Hitch. So, keep reading to learn more and stay informed about which RV brands you should avoid or at least you should check the RV carefully before making the purchase! You will need different components to ensure a proper towing mechanism. Here are 5 RV brands we think are worth investing your money into: Hymer. The heater vent under the dinette is incorrectly aligned. Australia ranked first, USA second and China third - despite the relative unpopularity of camping in China. These include brands such as Hurricane, Keystone . If yes, is it outside or inside? Dust can also be a nightmare when you dont have a properly sealed trailer - look for well-sealed gaps that will keep the interior looking spick and span even in dusty, windy, or rainy weather. They jump significantly in pricing levels, with the imported ones at the cheapest end of the scale, some Aussie and Chinese made in the middle, and then the . Owing to the extensive cost of buying a camping trailer, you might be wondering if they are worth the investment or not. There is more space than you'll ever need! (1300 494 494) Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. The setup and pack down of the camper trailer should be simple. See below our current Super Tourer Packages. Its common to hear complaints about their slow response time and lack of help. You can find a range of camper trailers costing anywhere from $6000 to $40,000. Camper trailers let you live in comfort wherever you choose to go. It means that this light trailer is easy to tow. Its likely youll have questions about your camper after you buy it, and you might even run into issues down the road that call for repairs, so hearing from other campers about their trailer experience is a useful place to start. With over 10 years experience in trailer manufacturing, off-road real-life . Keystone. We discuss whether its cheaper to book your trip yourself or through a travel agent, and go through some money-saving tips for during the planning stage. Stove wasn't connected and fire extinguisher was 4 years old. Many people wonder how long camper trailers last before purchasing the trailer. Where most forward . There's also a roof rack that lets you add more storage and portable showers. Cub is the longest standing camper trailer builder in Australia and the Brumby is one of its most iconic models. Analyze if the kitchen construction is durable or not. There are hundreds of camper trailer brands in the market fighting for your attention! Showers spew water and toilets leak in many units. If youre a first-time buyer and youre interested in any models from these RV manufacturers, you should have someone with experience come and checked with you. Cub Brumby. The benefits of buying an Australian-made camper trailer go beyond the inherent quality manufacturers need to aspire to relevance in the market. The Eagle has the best floorplan, though, with a lounge next to the larger bed so adults can retire to it for quiet conversation and port, while the kids slumber at the other end. Avoid camper-trailers built with poor materials, Look for a camper built with top-quality materials. Legislation if necessary as sometimes there are safety issues. let us know in the comments. Latest review: After waiting 7 months. The UEV-490 offers individuals an Off-Road Hybrid Caravan, which is known to be the "Swiss army knife" of the Camper trailer industry. 03. Early Australian camper trailers were built in response to rising fuel costs and cars with smaller capacity engines just because you drove a Fiat 500 in 1972 didnt mean you werent interested in towing a trailer on summer holidays, after all. You can tow off-road camper trailers to a variety of terrains. If you can't find an Airstream camper in Australia, contact Jayco. Well, the brands recent RV models are less reliable than the older ones, so use your best judgment if you still want to buy from this company. Most will have a kitchenette, multiple berths, and a lounge area. There's also under-bench storage that can hold all the kitchen items. . These include: Its space-like design and hi-fi cooking area have our appreciation! Gulf Stream travel trailer brand: 1%. Check that a camper trailer has enough storage space for your needs. Gibb River Rd and has held up well. It is also one of the very few off-road camper trailers that include a washing machine. Compare. With a durable chassis, plenty of storage, and a variety of campers with on-road and off-road capabilities to choose from, Challenge Camper Trailers have the reliability and power to get you where you want to go. The flip side is that they dont have the same quality and construction that you would expect from motorhomes. Some trailers also offer the option of awnings and extra rooms, letting them sleep more people and offering more living space. Many customers have complained of electrical malfunctions and access problems. Since then, over 8,000 Kimberley Kampers, Karavans and Kruisers have been sold to passionate owners across Australia and 17 countries worldwide. There are several complaints from users including structural and technical issues and the website isn't to use and customer care is unreliable. Here is the list of Genuine Australian Made camper trailer manufacturers and Guild members. Christmas seems to go hand in hand with consumption, but that doesnt mean you cant be eco-friendly with your gift giving. Weve rounded up a list of practical gifts that all kinds of travellers - from camping enthusiasts to long haul flyers - will enjoy. You have everything ready to go, the oil in the 4WD is changed, everything is packed in the brand new camper trailer and life is good. One of the most significant advantages of this camper trailer is its slide-out bed. (image credit: Brendan Batty/campertrailerreview.com.au). How To, off-road tips and adventure travel destinations, Not just utes. It suits travelling couples, although is one of the better forward-folds if youre considering one for your family travels. Introducing the 2020 Camper Trailer of the Year Winner, the Patriot Campers brand NEW X3. They are roughly divided into three camps: the Jayco-esque campers, the tent-trailers, which are mostly steel trailers with a canvas tent incorporated, and hybrid camper trailers, which look a lot like small caravans or teardrops, but are made by camper trailer manufacturers and usually very handy off-road. Today, theres a shrinking, but passionate number of camper trailer manufacturers operating in Australia, but because they cant compete on price with most of the imported product from China, they compete on quality and innovation. Opus is based in Victoria and can be contacted on (03) 9068 5914. Quality Rating. Required fields are marked *. In basecamp form its ideal for small families. my Alpha 18 months This website and AMCTG has been established as a result of poor quality componentry and workmanship in many cheap camper trailers being imported into Australia. Being an off-grid trailer, it can take all the beating your throw at it. The rooftop tent pops open in the pop-up camper trailers like these. 1/10. You should also check your vehicles ball weight, which is the maximum pressure that can be placed on your vehicles towball. Home RV Guides RV Brands to Avoid: You Dont Want to Buy Your First RV From These! Most caravanners are familiar with the Gall Boys and their wild adventures in northern Australia, but few realise one of them builds camper trailer tents from a small shed in Queensland. Alright, let's pour some scorn as we look at some of the worst travel trailer brands to avoid and why. SEND US YOUR STORY; STANDARDS. Image Credits: Unlock a Plush Camping Experience with HQ17 and HQ19. Avoid camper-trailers your vehicle is unable to tow, This Ford Everest can easily tow this 1285kg Jayco Swan Outback. It also gives you access to clean water with its 120-litre water tank. Some initial issues but the guys at Ezytrail resolved quickly. Top 10 Best Rooftop Tents In Australia: The Ultimate Buying Guide. The cabinet doors fail frequently and result in expensive repairs. However, they do have some problems with their quality control, which means you might experience a few issues right off the bat. into remote, pristine areas of D . If you think the above camper trailer is beyond your budget, you'll love the Oregon Camper Do Drop that costs as little as $6,200. Winnebago, a company that has been in business for quite some time, provides several excellent options for you. We supply Campers throughout Australia particularly from Brisbane to Cairns and across most parts of QLD. This is one of the more bizarre lists Ive read from an experienced RVer? Rusting and leaking problems are the main concerns. Not all products of these companies are low-quality and obviously their customer service can be improved day by day. This is a public forum presenting user opinions on selected products and businesses, and as such the views expressed do not reflect the opinion of ProductReview.com.au. Bruder is an example that nothing can beat an Aussie build! Lack of airflow in the cabin due to blocked heat vents. So what are the worst RV brands? You need to shell out $66,000 to bring home this camping buddy. Travelling can be a huge expense, which is why its normal to try to score savings when you can. 4. Whether travelling solo or with a large group, storage space always comes in handy. Well, the truth is many Coleman units are cheaply made and prone to deterioration. Australian-built campers are usually lighter than even the best equivalents from China. However, reports of poor performance and quality are enough to make it one of the worst camper brands. Gulf Stream and Keystone are infamous for water leaks, while Jayco and Coachmen suffer with their few worse-performing models. Cub have been, We purchased our SC-WT in 2020. The Eagle Outback is also a chef's delight. There are difficulties in using the control board? As with most things in life, you only get . Dutchman is one of the best travel trailer brands that has been selling fifth wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers for more than 20 years. There may be second hand privately imported models for sale. See the Cub Campers website here. The park was occupied by 29 caravans and 42 campers, plus many tents. Local builders often have more scope to customise their trailers to suit more personal needs, as they are usually built to order, rather than by the container-load months in advance. Wondering how much air to put in your tyres? However, it took a long time for anyone to have a good crack at it. All these complaints make them the worst toy hauler brands to avoid. This model has a rugged build. Forget the Ford Maverick! This brand has two models of off-road trailer campers in their lineup, EXP-4 and EXP 6. Factors to consider when choosing a camper trailer. Coleman. Everything You Need To Know About The 23 Zero Swag - Review. The camper can handle a total weight of 670 kg. Youll get better at set-up and pack-up with familiarity and repeated practise, but the process shouldnt be terribly difficult to begin with if it is, then thats not the right camper for you. 2. You'll find this trailer a worthy investment because it comes with all top-notch amenities blackout curtains, bathroom, shower, and kitchen with two-burner hob. You'll fall in love with the exterior design of Escapod's simple trailers. Snowy River SRC. Manufacturing defects lead to leaks and storage issues. Where once, many of us working to a budget were often satisfied with a steel box and a basic canvas tent over a foam mattress, we now expect more. In addition, some owners report that parts and pieces break down more frequently than other brands. Towing capacities can range from 640kg (unbraked) and 1200kg (braked) in a compact AWD SUV, to 750kg (unbraked) and 3500kg (braked) in many large SUV wagons and dual-cab utes, through to the 6989kg (braked) towing capacity of a Ram 3500 pick-up. Some brands dont hold up to the reputation they had in the past. The overall condition of the interior should be tip-top. Though costly, you would find the Sherpa Camper to be worth every penny. Its common for parts to become loose and lights to go out without any prior notice. This isnt just a boon for the end-consumer, as even importers of Chinese-built campers still find campers theyve ordered missing features they wanted or with surprises they didnt and so have to do some tinkering locally. Stove wasn't connected and fire extinguisher was 4 years old. A lot of our competitors choose to use a 14oz canvas, Platinum uses a 16oz canvas with good tight weaves. Hurricane. . ALL of Keystones travel trailers? Exposed wiring, structural issues, and faulty parts are common problems. Youre looking for a level of workmanship that matches the cash you plan to spend. Moreover, the camper trailer should also have some scope for modifications such as upgraded bedding, a second battery, and larger water tanks. . If these are in good shape then chances are the manufacturers havent skimped on other materials. The EXP 6 Camper can sleep small families of up to 6 members. Sharing his own experience and knowledge about RV life is now part of his passion and enjoyment. TRAILER TYPES. Perfect for anyone, because their tent options are extensive. Not all RVs are brand, even the worst brands have good models. 11 Worst Travel Trailer Brands Out There. Backpacker 2. The exterior trailer body features a clean and straightforward design. Jayco is one of the leading RV manufacturers in the US and comes with many attractive features but has unfortunately received negative reviews from customers. Winnebago. Arriving before christmas. However, that doesnt necessarily mean you have to leave electric power, Read More A Review Of The Most Popular Camping Generators In AustraliaContinue, Your email address will not be published. Family focused reviews and advice for everything family car related. Most existing Jayco users also claim that the Eagle Outback gives you a lot of opportunities to upgrade and modify. It's the best value, Aussie-made rear-fold on the market. Keystone t ravel trailer brand: 26%. However, you'll not find many facilities and accessories in the Timberland Pika. We've done the homework for you and put together a buying guide that will help you pick the best camper trailer. Besides, it packs all the latest gizmos and gadgets that you'll need during your camping trip. But with time, Gulf Streams quality has diminished, becoming one of the worst class C RV brands. It was basically just a trailer with a canvas canopy over it and bed inside. There was a time not so long ago where I could give you a basic run down of the different camper trailers sold in Australia. Some of the chief complaints regarding Fleetwood revolve around its customer service. According to various online forums, most owners report problems with roofs, skylights, drains, waste valves, and flooring. After obtaining a Masters Degree in Automotive Engineering from Columbia University in the City of New York, Scott worked as an RV technician in Camping World and Outdoorsy for years. The HQ17 from Blackseries boasts quality off-road tires and excellent suspension, best for tricky terrains. SUSPENSION. Amenities such as sinks, microwaves, and refrigerators should be present. Here's what to look out for and buy smart, Get to know the personalities behind the team every week, The most interesting hints of what's to come. A Large camper van, family size. Because many caravan shoppers try to buy in time for their summer plans, sales tend to start nosediving in October, which is why you should at least hold off until then. Customer service unable to properly handle the constant influx of service requests. If you go on outdoor vacations for a week or more, you'll need a lot of utilities in your camper. Another sofa provides . Camper trailers are a lot less specced-out than caravans, but they should still have some basic amenities - such as beds and cooking facilities - that can help you be comfortable wherever you are. The black water tank does not drain properly. Four Couples & Four Arias. Has Fleetwood resumed making travel trailers? Ive had importers tell me that they use heavier steel in their campers just to make sure theyre as strong as Aussie ones the weight a reasonable trade-off for warranty problems down the track. A well-maintained gravel road doesnt call for a heavy duty camper, but if you think youll be tackling trails tougher than dirt roads, then an off-roader may be a good option.