Let's Go Camping Guide

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Vintage trailers can make a great home for your campground trips.

Camping Homes: The Vintage Trailer

Looking for a Vintage Trailer for your camping home?

If a vintage camper is an investment you are looking to pull into the campground, here are a few things to know.

  • There are a lot of choices, so think about going to a vintage show to see all the fantastic options in the marketplace.

  • Try camping at a vintage campground or rent a vintage camper for a camping trip. 

  • Most important talk to vintage campers about the pros and cons of owning a vintage camper.

The vintage camper has a vibe layered with history and a style all its own.

Vintage Camper Huntington Beach

Vintage trailer construction was not always done with longevity in mind,
so when looking for a trailer ready to hit the road have a careful look first.

Checklist for buying a vintage trailer if you are considering a ready-to-use purchase.

  • Check the support system.

  • Look underneath and inspect the chassis.

  • Look at all wiring, both inside and out.

  • Give the outside a good look for loose or missing parts.

  • Check the axle and bearings for rust.

  • Look at tires; even if you are going to replace they have to get you home.

  • Look at the trailer hitch and chains for rust.

  • Check the roof and vents for rust; this gives you an idea about the interior ceiling and where to look for water damage.

  • Check all wood inside and out for water damage, especially the ceiling and floor.

  • Look at window seals and door jams; open and close windows to ensure they work.

  • Open and close all dressers, drawers, and kitchen storage.

  • Take a look at all hardware.

  • Check appliances, does the oven and refrigerator work?

  • Check bathroom plumbing if included in the camper.

  • Ensure the electrical wiring is current; if not, consider updating all lighting, inside and out.

  • Update bedding if needed.

The Vintage Trailer has a soul.

Walk up to the wooden screen doors to find polished wood cabinetry. Sit down on a leather or velvet sofa decorated with plush whimsical pillows. Imagine an art deco bar lined with favorite libations. Fall in love with the dinette lined with a vintage tablecloth set for tea. Imagine a full-sized kitchen with a stainless steel sink and a brightly colored oven. Set out the salt and pepper shakers, checkered napkins, and Melmac dishes. Finally, walk through the hallway to find tucked between all that wood, a bed covered in a chenille bedspread with plush pillows and a favorite book ready for the end of a perfect day.

Search for
Airstream
Winnebago
Comet
Spartan
Shasta
Sportsman
Starlight
Silverstreak

Camp Note: Water damage is the number one thing to look for when searching for a vintage camper.

If the purchase is for a complete overhaul, have a professional tow the trailer; if it has been sitting in a field or laying low behind a home, consider a flatbed truck to the renovation site.

Purchase a flock of flamingos and drive into the campground.

Camp Sourcing for the Vintage Lifestyle.

Campers love to share
CampNation Expo is an great source for camping enthusiasts.

CampNation Expo

DYI camping experience.

Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine

Filled with all things vintage.

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