The Airstream/REI Co-Op Collaboration Delivers Forward-Thinking Towables
For 2023, the Two Companies Have Expanded Their Partnership with a 20-Foot Special Edition Basecamp Model Joining the Original 16-Food Version
Image Caption: Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
In the summer of 2022, Airstream and REI Co-Op surprised the RV industry by introducing a special edition Basecamp travel trailer. That model was the result of years of expertise from both brands, delivering a thoughtful and well-appointed camper designed to appeal to a broad range of outdoor adventurers. Just a year later, the two companies have expanded their partnership with the introduction of a larger version of their original trailer that maintains the same eco-friendly sensibilities.
Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
An Eco-Friendly Basecamp
The Special Edition Basecamp 16X is an upgraded version of the original 16-foot model that has been a part of the Airstream lineup for several years. It includes the RV manufacturer’s distinctive aerodynamic shape and aluminum aesthetic, keeping it lightweight and durable. Despite its compact design, the travel trailer comes with a well-equipped galley kitchen, a wet bath, space for two adults to sleep comfortably, and a rear hatch that provides excellent access to the interior. This version even comes standard with the Basecamp X-Package, adding all-terrain tires and stone and window guards, increasing its performance off-road.
When manufacturing the Special Edition Basecamp, Airstream, and REI emphasized the use of eco-friendly materials. As a result, the interior of the travel trailer features recycled fabrics, laminates, and paper throughout. Artisan birch plywood, which is 30% lighter than other types of wood, is used in the construction of the kitchen cabinets and furniture. A recirculating water heater reduces waste by providing on-demand hot water at a temperature of the owner’s choosing. A composting toilet and roof-mounted solar panels are optional upgrades that further expand the towable’s eco-friendly credentials.
REI’s contribution to the Special Edition Basecamp also includes a 25-piece camping kit. That package comes with camping chairs, a foldable picnic table, kitchen utensils, towels, mugs, and more. All of those items fit into a dedicated storage pack that seamlessly stashes away inside the travel trailer.
Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
A Larger, More-Spacious Model
Last year’s version of the Special Edition Basecamp was such a hit that Airstream and REI decided to expand the lineup with a 20-foot model. The new Airstream REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp 20X travel trailer shares many of the same features as its predecessor, including using sustainably sourced and recycled materials. But it also puts its extra space to good use by creating a roomier, more livable interior.
The larger Basecamp Special Edition rides on a bigger chassis, which allows for additional conveniences. For instance, this model has larger holding tanks, allowing it to stay off-grid for extended periods of time. It also has a dedicated dinette located in the front of the trailer that quickly converts into a bed when needed. Best of all, it features a cooler built into the floor that can be used as wet storage or to keep your favorite beverages cold.
Like its 16-foot sibling, the Special Edition Basecamp 20X comes standard with Airstream’s off-road X-Package. This makes it surprisingly well suited for boondocking at remote locations compared to the original Basecamp models. The composting toilet and solar panels remain optional upgrades, but the recirculating water heater and a UV water purification system remain part of the package.
Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
Made for Outdoor Adventurers
Both versions of the Airstream REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp are designed with the core customers of each brand in mind. For Airstream, that’s individuals and couples or small families who enjoy camping and traveling in a comfortable and well-built RV. As for REI customers, the travel trailer serves as a more comforable and eco-friendly alternative to tent camping. Its off-road capabilities also allow the towable to support other active ventures, like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and climbing.
The Special Edition Basecamp includes a few extra features that give it more appeal to the active outdoor crowd. For instance, it has a dedicated gear closet and an L-track storage system for securing bikes, skis, kayaks, and other equipment. Its 3,500-pound weight makes it easy to tow behind a variety of vehicles, including midsize SUVs, smaller pickups, and even some crossovers.
Photo Credit: Airstream/REI
These towable should also appeal to newcomers to the RV lifestyle. Essentially, they provide everything you need in one convenient package, including equipment to make life at the campsite as comfortable as possible. In other words, this is a turnkey solution for beginning RVers, thanks in part to the 25-piece REI equipment pack included with each travel trailer.
Both models are available now. The 16X model starts at $52,900, while the 20X version carries a $62,400 price tag. For a closer look, including floorplan overviews, 3D interactive experiences, and a complete list of features, visit the Airstream website.
