The nomadic life is no longer just about the classic silver Airstream. A host of independent designers are releasing tiny, lightweight trailers that let owners camp where and when they want. From campers with fold-out kitchens to caravans that can double as boats, here are five of our favourites.
The Polydrop trailer, from $13,000
Best for: minimalism lovers
This stripped back take on the classic camper measures just over 12-ft-long but has enough room for two people to cosy up. Inside is Scandi-style pine panelling, wrapped in a faceted aluminium shell.
A solar panel on top powers the Polydrop trailer, which unfolds to reveal a kitchen at the back. Find out more.
Droplet trailer, from $16,950
Best for: those that want to see the sunset
The designers of this tiny trailer wanted to create a light-filled alternative to the many dark and enclosed trailers on the market. Droplet has a large skylight for stargazing, as well as windows on all sides, which come with optional magnetic covers.
At the rear is a kitchen with a fridge, stove and sink. The trailer is built using lightweight materials borrowed from the yacht industry, meaning it can be pulled by any car.
Lume Traveller No 1, from €46,500
Best for: foodies
Owners of a Lume Traveller No 1 trailer can experience all the luxuries of home on the go. It’s completely customisable, which means buyers can opt for a basic model, or add in air conditioning, Bose speakers and a flat-screen TV if they’re planning on spending a lot of time in it.
Lume’s tiny kitchen includes a stainless steel counter, full stove and 40-litre cooler and its sleek aluminium skin hides teak, wool and felt interiors.
Sealander, from €46,500
Best for: amphibious campers
For those traversing land and water, the Sealander caravan is an amphibious trailer that doubles as a boat thanks to its onboard engine. Benches and adjustable seats can accommodate six people, and the structure is topped by a retractable roof to let the sunshine in and enjoy those views.
The tiny caravan clocks in at just 192cm high, which means it’s easily stashed when not in use.
Hütte Hut, from $63,900
Best for: Fans of Modernism
The Hütte-Hut offers an alternative to the classic Airstream. Instead of aluminium, it’s made from marine plywood, with birch flooring inside. It’s only 44 sq ft, which means there’s just enough room for two to sleep comfortably.
Ribbon windows bring in light, as does the fabric roof that stretches over the Hütte-Hut’s exposed wooden frame.
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