Why You Should Consider a Fiberglass Travel Trailer
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A molded-fiberglass travel trailer is not just an RV. It represents a lifestyle. Shoppers who dive into researching these RVs will quickly discover that this niche is markedly different than the rest of travel trailer culture.
Many folks start looking at molded-fiberglass RVs simply as attractive lightweight options in the towable market. They soon find out their relatively light weight isn’t the only quality that sets these “egg” trailers apart from the crowd. The purchase process, online community and rally culture are all distinguishing — and fascinating — features. What began as an ordinary RV shopping experience may morph into something more like an epic quest when potential buyers start searching for the perfect molded-fiberglass RV.
But first, the basics. What makes the bones of molded-fiberglass travel trailers distinct from traditional stick-and-tin RVs? They are made from pouring fiberglass into production molds that are expensive to produce. Typically, a molded top and bottom are sealed together by a band around the middle, but some are made with a right and left half. The primary benefit is an extremely strong yet lightweight exterior shell that is virtually impenetrable by water because it has far fewer seams than traditional types of construction. This manufacturing process yields a higher price tag, for sure. However, the life span of these trailers tends to be much longer, and the resale market is strong.
Above: Trillium Outback, built in Alberta. Top: Oliver Travel Trailers of Tennessee.
The high cost of fiberglass molds leads to some industry norms that you may notice while perusing the models featured in this roundup. Most manufacturers offer a very limited selection of sizes and floorplans. Most molded-fiberglass trailers will range in length from 13 feet to 17 feet, with some larger options up to 25 feet. A wet bath or no bathroom at all are typical, although it is possible to find full baths in the larger models.
While most of the RV industry is controlled by a few large manufacturing conglomerates, the molded-fiberglass market continues to operate a bit like the Wild West. It’s made up of more than a dozen small manufacturing companies spread throughout North America. Most do not sell their trailers through a traditional dealer network, so buyers place custom orders and often travel to the factory to take ownership. Exceptions include the Airstream Nest and Little Guy MyPod, both featured in this roundup, and the Liberty Outdoors ParkLiner, with new models due out in the near future.
Potential owners may find their best sources of information are rallies and online forums for fiberglass enthusiasts. Given the dispersed nature of the manufacturing, internet resource hubs like www.fiberglassrv.com can help newbies sort through the far-flung options and hook up with manufacturer-specific groups. And since shoppers won’t find a variety of molded-fiberglass models at a traditional RV show, many folks attend enthusiast rallies before they buy an egg trailer of their own.
Navigating the realm of molded-fiberglass travel trailers is not for the casual RV shopper. You will likely have to do a bit more legwork to track down your dream trailer. But, according to all those passionate fiberglass RV owners out there, the payoff will be worth it.
Howenwald, Tennessee: Oliver Legacy Elite II
Among fiberglass aficionados, the Oliver name is synonymous with “understated elegance.” The 23½-foot Legacy Elite II is available in two floorplans: one with a convertible U-shaped dinette, and the other with twin beds, a nightstand and a storage drawer. Both offer additional seating with a two-person side dinette. The interior is bright, cheery and modern, with ample lighting and overhead cabinetry. The front bathroom may eliminate some natural light, but it brings more space and comfort than other floorplans in this category. A fully outfitted kitchen with a pantry will please RV chefs. For gadget geeks, upgrades and add-ons abound. Options include a solar-power system, Wi-Fi booster and composting toilet. www.olivertraveltrailers.com
Uniontown, Ohio: Little Guy MyPod
Looking for a tiny trailer for smaller tow vehicles? The 630-pound (dry weight) MyPod, with a 110-pound hitch weight, fits the bill. The interior contains a 52-by-76-inch mattress and an entertainment center with a stereo, speakers and flat-screen TV, along with a three-speed Fan-Tastic Vent fan and stylish window shades. The sleek exterior has a practical gravel guard and an optional roof rack for the outdoor adventurer. Liberty Outdoors’ Tear Drop Shop sells a wide variety of accessories to outfit the rig, including an attachable screen room that allows for added living space. To mix or match with a variety of tow vehicles, the MyPod comes in five colors: white, silver, black, blue and red.
Jackson Center Ohio: Airstream Nest 16FB
The Nest’s streamlined fiberglass exterior won’t be instantly recognizable as an Airstream, but step inside, and it all makes sense. Luxurious and, according to the company, “decidedly modern,” the Nest manages to be refined and practical. Panoramic front windows in the 16FB allow for breathtaking views, while blackout shades provide privacy when needed. The handcrafted Italian cabinetry, seamless vinyl flooring and stainless-steel sink make the Nest feel like a hip urban apartment. Thoughtful interior touches abound including USB ports, a flatware organizer and integrated soap dispensers in the shower. The 58-by-80-inch queen bed provides comfortable sleeping for two, while a separate couch allows for seating anytime, making this a flexible floorplan for couples on different schedules. Continuous hot water and surprisingly generous storage space make this Nest feel like home. www.airstream.com
Rice, Texas: Casita Independence Deluxe
Three wrap-around windows surround the rear twin beds of the Independence Deluxe, offering cross-ventilation and natural light. There’s also ample lighting and overhead cabinet space. Buyers can add an optional flat-screen TV, making this the perfect nook for relaxing with a book or watching a movie on a rainy night. The compact kitchen with a three-burner cooktop makes smart use of space with a folding countertop that drops down above the sink. Range and sink covers allow for additional room to prepare food or make coffee in the morning. The front bathroom is relatively spacious for a 17-foot trailer, offering a compelling option for couples who want a lightweight towable that doesn’t skimp on livability. www.casitatraveltrailers.com
Henderson, Colorado: Weiscraft Little Joe
The 12½-foot Little Joe offers comfortable seating and sleeping areas in a small package. The two 78-inch sofas positioned along either side wall provide plenty of room to kick back and relax. The sofas convert into a 78-by-63-inch bed for sleeping space usually found in much larger trailers. This dedication to spacious seating and sleeping arrangements means the kitchen is small by necessity, with a two-burner cooktop on one side, a kitchen sink on the other and room for an optional refrigerator. Flip-up counters are available on both sides of the kitchen for more room to prepare meals or make coffee. www.weiscrafttrailers.com
Chilliwack, British Columbia: 19-Foot Escape
With a dry weight just under 3,000 pounds and a gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr) of 5,000 pounds, Escape’s 19-foot trailer is a good match for properly equipped SUVs. The trailer is small enough to take just about anywhere but still packed with amenities and generous storage and cabinet space. The 60-by-80-inch queen bed with a coil-spring mattress is ideal for taller travelers, while abundant overhead cabinets provide room for clothing and food storage. The dinette seats four comfortably and can be turned into an extra bed. The wet bath with a sink, shower and toilet comes standard, as do the cooktop, sink and fridge. Custom wood interior and oak cabinetry create a homey atmosphere. Generous tank sizes make the trailer ready for adventure.www.escapetrailer.com
Backus, Minnesota: Scamp 13-Foot Standard
Weighing 1,500 pounds unloaded, Scamp’s 13-foot trailer can be towed by a variety of vehicles and will fit in even the smallest state park campsites. Despite its compact size, the trailer manages to pack in the basics. One of two floorplans, Layout 1 includes a rear dinette that converts into a bed with storage underneath. The kitchen contains a two-burner stove and a sink plus overhead cabinets. Layout 2 has a wet bath, but tank sizes are limited, so plan on combining use of bathhouses and the wet bath when sewer hookups are not available. With a starting price of $10,500, this model makes a great alternative to a teardrop or pop-up trailer and provides an affordable entry into the often pricey world of molded fiberglass. www.scamptrailers.com
Calgary, Alberta: Trillium Outback
With almost 25 customizable options, the Outback can be built with your own camping style in mind. Made with molds used to create the original Trillium trailers in the 1970s, it comes in four floorplans with possibilities for bunk beds, a mini couch, a flush toilet and a front dinette. Options include a solar-power system, a custom appliance package, oak interior and many others that help make this small trailer feel like home at the campground or miles off the grid. The interior is stylish and modern, and shoppers can pick from more than 100 exterior colors, and even choose the sequencing of those colors to create a fiberglass trailer that is truly one of a kind. www.trilliumtrailers.com
Armstrong, British Columbia: Bigfoot 25RQ
Looking for a fiberglass trailer without compromising on size, seating and creature comforts? You’ll want to check out the 25½-foot 25RQ. The dinette extends into an L-shape, allowing for comfortable dining and a seat for stretching your legs. Counter space will fit a coffeemaker and toaster with room to spare for food preparation. The walk-around 60-by-74-inch bed will appeal to those who dislike climbing over their partner, and the wardrobe and drawers make it easy to pack for longer trips. Generously sized black, gray and freshwater tanks are perfect for boondocking, and ample cargo-carrying capacity allows for the possibility of adding solar. Heated and enclosed tanks, high-density insulation and thermal-pane windows make the 25RQ a year-round travel trailer. www.bigfootrv.com
More Fiberglass Trailers: Thinking Outside the Egg
The small world of fiberglass trailers has grown in some quirky and quixotic directions in recent years. Companies like Southern California’s Happier Camper, Oregon’s Dub Box, Washington’s Relic Custom Trailers, and Armadillo Trailers in British Columbia are making small trailers that should find equal appeal among Millennials buying their first RVs and Baby Boomers with a sense of retro style.
Based in Los Angeles, Happier Camper targets the outdoor enthusiast with its large rear hatch, wide entry door and panoramic windows. The retro-style exterior is charming and nostalgic, and its modular interior system is flexible and customizable. According to the company, “Configuring and reconfiguring is a snap” — and it also looks like a whole lot of fun.
Dub Box USA builds distinctive molded-fiberglass trailers in the small town of Aurora, Oregon. The Dub Box’s body and moon-capped wheels look like a Volkswagen camper van straight out of the Summer of Love, but the gelcoat exterior colors, stylish and customizable interiors, and pop-up roof represent something new in the world of fiberglass RVs.
Made in Enderby, British Columbia, the 13½-foot Armadillo could easily pass for the granddaddy of “egg” trailers, the Boler, and for good reason. Its rounded fiberglass body is made from the original molds of its trailblazing Canadian ancestor. Updated technology, contemporary comforts, modern interiors and trendy decor bring its three floorplans up to date.
The story behind Relic Trailers of South Prairie, Washington, is every bit as interesting as its mid-20th-century design. It involves a high school welding teacher, a warehouse in Michigan and an ad on Craigslist. Relic offers a wide variety of options in three layouts: one with a full bed, one with two twins and one with a convertible U-lounge. The rest is up to you.
No matter what options you choose, these trailers are sure to make a splash at the campground.
