Luckily, camper trailers last for up to 10 years on average. The highest-specified camper trailer in Outback Travel Australia's Camper Trailer Torture Test was Kimberley's Kamper Platinum edition and it also carried the highest price tag, with a RRP of $50,660. And it's still rolling, and rolling strong. Check for top-quality materials such as a hot-dip galvanised steel chassis, Australian-made canvas, aluminium or steel poles, and a high-density foam or open-cell foam mattress on the bed. Since there are a lot of different opinions for the question: Which are RV brands to avoid?, to provide a fair answer, we conducted a survey to Camping is our life a reliable Facebook group for RV campers with more than 128,000 members, in which there were appropriately 3,000 respondents. Inside the HQ17 and HQ19 trailer, you'll find everything and anything you need for a comfy ride. There is more space than you'll ever need! Not only are there several potential safety issues with their models, but they also need to add the latest same technology and amenities in their units. The flip side is that they dont have the same quality and construction that you would expect from motorhomes. Theyll give you a better idea of a camper trailer manufacturers after sales service and the durability of their campers. One option isnt necessarily superior to another - the right choice for you will largely depend on where you want to travel, how you like to travel, and your personal situation (such as your budget). It also gives you access to clean water with its 120-litre water tank. SUSPENSION. 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. Winnebago. Australian made may need a little more explanation, as it is a claim many companies make. *Your tow vehicle needs an electric/electronic brake controller system fitted and functional in order for you to be able to legally tow any camper-trailer, boat-and-trailer combination or caravan weighing more than 750kg. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. They cost lower as compared to hotels and rental accommodations. Their showroom is at: 13 Indian Drive, Keysborough, VIC, 3173. Rhinomax Campers are all hand built completely within the walls of our workshops in Sunshine Coast Queensland by a team of experienced engineers and skilled craftsmen. What do you think is the best Aussie-made camper trailer? It is also worth mentioning that the camper trailer weighs 1300 kg. 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 . 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 . These are absolute cheap nasty rubbish camper trailers. the UEV Boasts an incredible reputation of Off-Road capabilities with its Patented Suspension systems, along with the Versatile Sleeping & Set up configurations this compact trailer provides. These handpicked camper trailers in Australia come from only popular and renowned brands. See the Cub Campers website here. After talking to many other Trak Shak owners, both online and in campsites. Some other problems include fire hazards, gas leaks, and improper components. In basecamp form its ideal for small families. Year round, our experts at Camper are out there doing real life testing of recently released camper trailers, camping gear and tow vehicles, from all the leading and lesser known brands, to provide you with the most comprehensive and credible reviews in Australia. 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. Additionally, users complain about poor-quality construction and materials. There are reports about slide issues and defective awning and wiring. Australia ranked first, USA second and China third - despite the relative unpopularity of camping in China. This brand has two models of off-road trailer campers in their lineup, EXP-4 and EXP 6. It features road tires so that the muddy and tricky terrains don't use your journey. You might not need all of the above features, but having some can help you be more self-reliant in even the most remote places. You need to shell out $66,000 to bring home this camping buddy. Our automotive experts are here to help, If you're wondering, we've probably got the answer. Here is a list of a few interior and exterior checks that will make it easy for you to pick the best camper trailers: These days, camper trailers come with accessible towing features to save you from back-breaking work. We also find the interior space to be highly functional and optimal. Our is, Latest review: I have just picked up a second hand Delta in perfect condition and cant wait to use it. There are difficulties in using the control board of these trailers. There are several things to avoid when buying a new or second-hand camper-trailer and here is our top 5 list of camper fails to give a wide berth. Read reviews! 2. The worst tire brands you should avoid buying include: Goodride. The original X1 is the most "family friendly" 44 camper trailer in our range. The Sherpa Campers have also surprised us with their three layers of windows. The Altitude Alpine 15 Camper Trailer is an Australian made and manufactured off-road and hybrid series of campers. Fleetwood has been a leading and trusted brand in RV manufacturing for over six decades. One major issue is the wrong weight rating on the hitch. They have the hard walls and roof of a caravan, but have the width of a camper trailer - this compact size means the cooking is generally done outside. Sun-Ray 109 Mini Camper. Improper sealing? All in all, it offers the best value for first-timers and people who are not looking to spend big bucks on campers. Forest River travel trailers often come equipped with cheap materials and questionable construction. Then perhaps you should take a look at the myCOOLMAN range, Read More How The myCOOLMAN Fridge Range Stacks Up ReviewContinue, A rooftop tent is a great way to explore the unbeaten and beautiful Australian outback tracks without having any fixed accommodation. 1/10. Ease of usage. With about 15 years in RV living, road tripping, Scott now uses this experience as a travel blogger. That said, there should be different storage spaces to lug your baggage, kitchen items, and personal items. 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. 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. Lack of airflow in the cabin due to blocked heat vents. But the industry should be responding to their very serious credibility problem. There are four models in the range, but the third-tier Canning seems the best value to me, with just the right amount of comfort, without going overboard. A Large camper van, family size. Next on our list is the Sherpa Camper. You can find a range of camper trailers costing anywhere from $6000 to $40,000. Offroad Caravan And Camper Trailer Warranty Terms. Quality has come a long way as the industry has grown and Chinese manufacturers have listened to the Australian consumer and their importing partners to fix problems and develop better ways to deliver a quality product. Escapod is a Utah-based company well-known for producing futuristic and top-notch teardrop trailers. Avoid camper-trailers with poor construction, A well-constructed camper-trailer is worth the money. Many Australian campers have innovations that no other campers have: from the literal staircase incorporated in Patriot Campers and the innovative (and patented) awning system in the Trackabout Campers to the simple genius of how Cub Campers forward fold camper opens and closes. As a 2nd time buyer, communication, Latest review: We bought an exodus 16 last year. Statistically, RVers dont go far from home, dont use their unit excessively and only for a short period of time during the year. Avoid camper-trailers built with poor materials, Look for a camper built with top-quality materials. What's the difference between a camper trailer and a caravan? Not all RVs are brand, even the worst brands have good models. Image Credits: The Futuristic Camper Trailer Every Camping Enthusiast Should Have! The HQ17 from Blackseries boasts quality off-road tires and excellent suspension, best for tricky terrains. Showers spew water and toilets leak in many units. Didnt they stop making TTs about 5 years ago? We believe over 95% of these units are still in use today. 5. The toughest Toyota ever? Things to Consider While Buying Off-Road Camper Trailers, Don't Forget the Modifications and Accessories, The Latest Off-Road Camper Trailer From Escapod, Have Great Outdoor Experience With Camper Trailers. Meet The Friends Who Love Traveling Together. let us know in the comments. They produce travel trailers, pop-up campers, fifth wheels, and other RV options. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. Are you looking for camping equipment that can keep your drink cold and food fresh for a long time? A new VIN plate could be cause for alarm. Bruder Campers: The word Bruder means "brother". One of the main reasons to pick this trailer is its excellent storage and posh interiors. For 20 years Trackabout has been known as a tough-as-nails camper trailer builder. If you are a first-time buyer, you might not be aware of the different camper trailers available in the market. When we didnt have to write an article about Australian made camper trailers, because, apart from a few notable exceptions (mostly from South Africa), all our camper trailers were built locally. It's the best value, Aussie-made rear-fold on the market. All the rest were Chinese in origin, and almost universally they exhibited a common . CODE OF ETHICS; WHY USE AUSSIE STEEL? The following information relates to warranties offered by MDC. Look for quirks and design flaws that may pose bigger problems down the track a bit: winder handles that dont work as smoothly as they should, gas struts that arent doing their job properly, bed bases that are vulnerable to outside moisture, pinch-points on hinges, canvas that doesnt tuck away or unfold neatly enough when setting or packing up, awnings/tented sections with too many spreader bars and no end wall, or those with a flat roofline which are prone to catching water when it rains. All their units are built in Sydney, but they have sales offices all across Australia. At the front there is a dedicated compartment for housing gas cylinders as well as a front box . They specialize in fifth wheels and travel trailers, and have sold over 600,000 RV units to date. It is thoughtful how the brand offers resilient outlining and mosquito-proof nets. These should be tucked away and well-protected, particularly those along the undercarriage, as theyre more vulnerable to flying rocks, dust, and debris. Winnebago, a company that has been in business for quite some time, provides several excellent options for you. The EXP 6 Camper can sleep small families of up to 6 members. Many customers reported that the A/C is unable to cool down the temperature properly. 2023 Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. 1. Jayco: Unreliable features, appliances break easily. Boat rack quickly started to rust all, Tent Does not fit frame, dust and water leaks, chassis bent, These campers are made to be towed from home, Set up in van park for holiday period, then packed up and taken home. Here are a few brands we've seen RV-owners have had regrets with not long after making a purchase. [So much crap for sale]. What do hybrid campers cost new? 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. You should also consider the number of sleeping arrangements you need, as well as how easy the beds are to reach. Getting the best available camper trailer is also about getting the best features within your price range. Opus is based in Victoria and can be contacted on (03) 9068 5914. The build quaility is fantastic. Under the foot of the bed, you'll find six internal storage boxes. Hurricane. 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. Its a given. A minimum of 2 years should be on all recreational vehicles and trailers. You can tow off-road camper trailers to a variety of terrains. According to the surveys result, here are what we got for the query what RV brands to avoid: With the above result, we already did the research and interviewed some RV owners to understand the reasons which are shown below. Lack of quality and dependability. The trailer has enough space for two campers. 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. Faulty electrical systems and leaking roofs. After talking to many other Trak Shak owners, both online and in campsites. Few minor cracked welds on frame easily fixed & gas struts need replacing but all is still, Latest review: EzyTrail Buckland LX Mk2. Image Credits: Say Yes to Living Off-Grid With Camper Trailers. The Jayco range of pop-up camper trailers are conceivably the most popular in the country, especially with families. So how does a camper trailer stack up against a caravan? It's a four-season swag made of. Keystone. The top 7 worst travel trailer brands: 1. You might find some manufacturers marketing their camper trailers at incredibly low prices in Australia but are unable to offer a variety of features. Users reports that cabinet doors falling off and having poorly designed control boards. Telluride. If you are a camping enthusiast, you should give the Blackseries HQ17 and 19 a look. Even while off the beaten track, the durable build of this camper gives you a comfortable experience. The engineering of the Cub Campers Frontier feels like a breath of fresh air. 12 Best Travel Trailer Brands To Consider In 2021. As a 2nd time buyer, communication, We bought an exodus 16 last year. 2023 Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Stove wasn't connected and fire extinguisher was 4 years old. Stove wasn't connected and fire extinguisher was 4 years old. Off-road for beginners and the experienced, plus camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes, We make it easy to compare design, practicality, value and more, Buying used? Compass Tires. Get access to our exclusive RV camping tips & RV product reviews to save your time and money! If not , how about Intech? Glad we opted for two gas bottles and stone guard. What Is The Best Dual Battery System For Your 4WD In Australia? Hard-core off-road camper-trailers (built using heavy-duty materials and construction) or campers packed with features or options will be heavier than their cheaper, bare-bones or lighter entry-level on-road counterparts. Let the Adventure Begin With Airstream Campers! Unfortunately, finding a camper with all accessories and modifications can be tricky. 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. The awning should be easy to set up. Simple, strong, small and light-weight, its enduringly easy to set up and pack up with just enough comfort for two. 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 . Ive used the normal soft-floor tent version, which goes up in about two minutes. Pioneer Campers won Camper Trailer of the Year Awards 2017 with the design of the Mitchell. Make sure all canvas on awnings or tented sections is well-stitched, blemish-, damp- and tear-free, and that there are no large holes in the sewing. Fleetwood Travel Trailer. Camper trailers also come in small quantities from South Africa and very small numbers from the USA. You'll also be delighted to learn that this ultimate camper trailer harbours a plush queen-size bed, an enormous fridge, Wi-Fi, TV, and air conditioner. There are many RV brands out there to choose from, but there are some RV brands to avoid when making a purchase. The batteries in some units show recharging issues. See below our current Super Tourer Packages. 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. Looking for tips on how to carry or travel with your family? Their one-year warranty coverage often leaves RVers helpless if something goes wrong. Does the camper trailer come with a bathroom? Be sure to research and read reviews when considering what RV to purchase. The build quaility is fantastic. Moreover, you have to consider the build quality, tent setup features, living space, water tanks, and so much more. It suits travelling couples, although is one of the better forward-folds if youre considering one for your family travels. We've listed all relevant models here. Are all electrics (plugs, wiring etc) neat, tidy and safely functioning? . Australian made camper trailers are, as a general rule, amongst the best on the market and often the ones setting the trends. Hinges, clips and latches need to be durable enough to cope with the rigours of camping and touring, and adjustable enough to squash tight in on dust seals to prevent water and dust ingress. Perfect for anyone, because their tent options are extensive. Users have found problems with the tow bar and braking system. 6. Cub have been, Latest review: We purchased our SC-WT in 2020. The Indiana-based company is known for manufacturing innovative vehicles that are equipped with standard features and equipment. Last but not least, we have the Jayco Eagle Outback trailer on our list. These Aussie camper trailers come in bright colours and are among the least expensive on the market. A Large camper van, family size. 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. Tidy and bolstered woodwork with glued or screwed joins is much better. If youre after an off-road trailer with adjustable suspension, spacious quarters, and a durable construction, then the GIC Black Series Patron might be what youre after. Proper Ford Everest rival inbound! Unsure of your car's maximum towing capacity? Aussie camper trailers are increasingly innovative, and come in all different shapes and sizes. Before I brought the camper from Prime Campers, we had been in search of hard floor camper for my family over a year: I went to, Latest review: Bought mine from second owner. Detailed advice for you - the tradie - on what car is right for you and your job, Looking for an answer? In addition, some owners report that parts and pieces break down more frequently than other brands. Sharing his own experience and knowledge about RV life is now part of his passion and enjoyment. Still one of the most desirable camper trailers on the market, its space-age teardrop design, incredibly clever tent system and military proven suspension system are the pride of many outback travellers. Whether you are looking for a camper trailer for family travels or just some solo time, we've got the best picks for you. If your vehicle is legally able to handle the burden, then youre good to go; if not, think about changing your target camper-trailer or upsizing your tow vehicle, if your budget allows. There are difficulties in using the control board? The rooftop tent pops open in the pop-up camper trailers like these. Also, being just 250 kg, it is the lightest camper trailer on our list! The camera trailer looks straight out of some sci-fi or future film from the outside. Quality with a 'K'. Camper-trailers are a big investment so you need to do your research and spend your hard-earned cash wisely. (image credit: Brendan Batty/campertrailerreview.com.au). In general, campers with Australian-made canvas use a 275gsm Wax Converters Canvas generally considered the best canvas in the world, local bias aside whereas most imported campers use a heavier 450gsm canvas, again to make sure there won't be any problems with it down the track. * Bent axle. The camper trailer model that is under this brand's review is the Eagle Outback. The roof edges are made of plastic material that appears very thin and fragile. MANUFACTURER. With over 30 years' experience in the engineering industry we utilise our industry . Not all products of these companies are low-quality and obviously their customer service can be improved day by day. ALL of Keystones travel trailers? The pricing is a tad steep at $50,000 AUD, but you'll understand that the various features make up for the pricing. With the right products, you can still eat, drink, and relax as if youre on holiday, so that your summer staycation is something special. Forest River was once the most reputable name in the industry. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers: Airstream: 4.3/5.0: . Coachman. With Slide out gas stove and kitchen. The horizon is wide open. This is one of the more bizarre lists Ive read from an experienced RVer? Happier Adaptiv Camper van. 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. The best camping trailer will check all the boxes of towing capacity, build quality, living space, simple setup, and comfortable bed. How To, off-road tips and adventure travel destinations, Not just utes. But, the variety, brands, types, and features of camper trailers available these days make it a painstaking task to spot the best one. I have camped, We bought our first camper trailer last September at Maitland 4x4 & Camping show. Weve not maintained any order here. If you are thinking of buying a travel trailer, think twice before choosing one of these brands. Ideally, you should wait until December or January when everyones on holiday and camper trailer dealers are itching to make a sale. 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. This model has a rugged build. Unit has been around Aus. Everything You Need To Know About The 23 Zero Swag - Review. There's also under-bench storage that can hold all the kitchen items. The trailer also takes care of cooling your beverages with its 35L refrigerator. I purchased a Trak Shak back in 2012 and I initially had concerns regarding the quality as I had heard that it had dropped. into remote, pristine areas of D . You should also look out for where the cables, switches, and plumbing are. Your email address will not be published. Detailed advice for you - the tradie - on what car is right for you and your job, Looking for an answer? All these complaints make them the worst toy hauler brands to avoid. Read about 5th wheels brands to avoid. Some models may develop bent and damaged walls. . The first Kimberley Kampers rolled out of the factory in 1994. Small vehicles will be able to legally tow smaller, less weighty camper-trailers and large 4WDs will be able to handle larger burdens at the back.