The Trailer Tent Guide

For many people, a trailer tent is the perfect thing for getting away close to nature.  It is a whole lot more than just a tent, yet not much less in comfort than a full sized camper.  Trailer tents are wonderful because they feature awnings that allow you double or triple the size of the trailer, allowing for a roomy and comfortable camping experience.  This is a guide to understanding the trailer tent so you will be informed before you buy one. 

The features of a trailer tent depend on the model. Some are standard, and other accessories cost extra. Here are some of the most common features of trailer tents:

Kitchens – Most trailer tents these days come with basic kitchens that include two or three burner stoves, a sink, a small refrigerator, and a small countertop. In addition, some trailer tents even have a bathroom inside of them.  Keep in mind that kitchens in these trailers tend to be pretty small and compact.  Kitchen items should be arranged as efficiently as possible, using space-saving items like a mini refrigerator and a magnetic knife holder.

Awnings -- Most trailer tents feature at least one awning. These are great because they increase the size of the tent trailer two or three-fold. An awning is usually made of canvas, providing a tent-like feeling that is big enough to stand up and move around in. A trailer tent awning should be completely waterproof as well, giving you ease of mind in bad weather. A sun awning provides a great mosquito-free area to eat or relax in privacy.

Beds – All tent trailers feature beds. Most have beds that sit off the ground, giving you a comfortable and dry place to sleep. In addition, tent trailers also offer ample room to sleep additional people under the large awnings.

A Coleman tent trailer comes equipped with two double beds, a kitchen, a bathroom, a dinette. In addition, dozens of other features, such as air conditioning, an extra room, furnace, and a bike or boat mount are available as add-ons with Coleman tent trailers. With a tent trailer like this, you will surely enjoy the outdoors in luxury.

Folding trailer tents

A folding trailer tent is folded out of the trailer and set up like a tent.  It has a rigid frame and canvas material, giving it the appearance of a tent.  Fold out trailer tents usually come with two awnings – one regular awning and one sun awning.

Flip top trailer tents

These kinds of tents are great due to their easy set-up and take down, taking just minutes to erect!  All you have to do is open the trailer top, and it unfolds to become the frame of the tent.   Flip top tents also feature awnings to increase their size. 

Folding Camper Trailer Tents

These trailer tents look like the bottom half of a small camper.  The good thing about this type of trailer tent is that it is very lightweight and can be pulled by a car.  Try doing this with a full sized camper!!  Folding campers have a roomy interior that can usually sleep at least four, and they also offer awnings that increase the living space. 

Fortunately, if you want a trailer tent but don’t want to fork over the dough for a new model, it is easy to find a used trailer tent.  Many camper and trailer dealers offer used models of high quality that cost a lot less than new models.  The classifieds is a great place to find a good deal on used trailer tents.  Make sure you thoroughly check it out before buying though, and have the owner set it up and take it down for you so you can see how it is done and inspect the interior. 

One great feature of the trailer tent is that it can be easily towed behind a car. Nearly all trailer tents can be pulled by an SUV, van or truck, and many can be pulled by a car. The weight of the trailer tent and the weight of your car are factors that determine what you can tow. Keep in mind that you will most likely be carrying other camping gear. Bring your car into any trailer tent dealer, and they will tell you which tent trailer you will be able to tow.

Prices of trailer tents vary widely, depending on the type, manufacturer, and features.  You should expect to pay about $3,000 (£1,800) for the most basic model, and up to $15,000 (£9,350) for the most luxurious tent trailer that isn’t a whole lot smaller than a full sized camper when set up