Zeppelin Z301

Finding a way to shed a few pounds is always a good idea, whether it is over your belly,
from your hips or, as is the case here, in a new line of lightweight travel trailers from
Keystone RV Company in Goshen, Indiana. Called Zeppelin Lightweight, the new division
brings the latest thinking in well-packaged travel trailers with one big difference from
regular trailers: significantly less weight than other trailers of the same size. How
light? The heaviest model, the 30-foot Z301, comes in at a svelte 5,120 pounds, and that’s
with all the options. What this means is that the average SUV, mid-size or full-size, can
tow a Zeppelin travel trailer. The new Keystone division currently has four models
available: an 18-footer, a 24-footer, a 28-footer and the aforementioned 30-footer. The
lightest model weighs only 3,020 pounds, fully equipped. Keystone entered the lightweight
market because of trends showing that customers want lighter travel trailers for their
SUVs, and because of increasing fuel costs. “It’s also the fastest-growing segment of the
market,” said Tim Dennig, general manager for Zeppelin. But lighter does not mean less
equipment or fewer conveniences. Dennig says Zeppelin trailers have the same or better
features than trailers of comparable size. So, how did they manage to keep weight down? “We
weighed everything,” Dennig said. “Just because you may have a vehicle that can tow a
heavier trailer, why?” There is also some new thinking on design at the company, and how
its trailers are built. “We set out to solve some of the biggest problems customers have
with travel trailers,” Dennig adds. Zeppelin addresses such problems as weather sealing,
fit-and-finish issues around doors and windows, inadequate lighting and poor space
utilization. Keystone Zeppelin trailers have numerous features and a different look for
this segment of the industry, including a crowned roof, claimed to provide better weather
sealing and drainage. A streamlined front-end is designed to improve airflow while towing,
and inside, unique lighting, complete with dimmers, adds an upscale look when the sun goes
down. Also inside all Zeppelin trailers are the type of details found in premium trailers
and some motorhomes, such as aluminum-framed dinette sets instead of wood. The trailers are
also available with slideouts to help increase interior space. All four models have a
45-gallon freshwater capacity and 35 gallons each for waste- and gray-water. Standard
equipment includes recessed ceiling lighting, centralized cable, satellite and telephone
hookups, Armstrong no-wax flooring, a step-well exterior light and lights at the dump valve
and in storage compartments. Prices for Zeppelin models range from $14,500 for the
18-footer to $17,800 for this 30-foot Z301. Keystone RV Company, (574) 535-2100,
keystone-zeppelin.com