Everything old is new again! And whether you want an RV rental or own your own — nothing is cooler than the classic look of a vintage camper. These retro rides feature sweet lines, panoramic windows, and insane interiors — which is why they are so popular.
Vintage campers – no matter how well you restore them – will always be vintage campers. The solution: a throwback-styled camper that combines those old-school design elements with modern features. They’re made with lighter, durable materials, have modern interiors, and offer better handling on the road.
Thinking about setting yourself apart from the rest of the camper crowd?
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Here are a few retro campers to check out:
- Shasta Airflyte
- Gidget Teardrop
- White Water Retro
- Winnebago Brave
- CH Camper
- Dub Box
- T@B Teardrop
- Happier Camper HC1
- Airstream Bambi Sport 16′
- Scamp/Casita/Fiberglass Egg Campers
How to Choose the Perfect Retro Camper for Your Needs
Choosing the right retro camper is all about balancing nostalgia with modern comfort. Start by considering how many people will be traveling—some models are ideal for solo adventurers, while others cater to families. Towing capacity is another important factor, so match the camper size with your vehicle. Finally, think about your budget and must-have features. While retro campers often have vintage aesthetics, many come with high-end amenities like solar panels, modern kitchens, or luxury bathrooms.
Top RV Destinations for Retro Camper Lovers
Ready to hit the road with your retro camper? Some destinations are tailor-made for vintage enthusiasts. Explore classic Americana by traveling Route 66, stopping at vintage diners and retro-themed RV parks along the way. Consider visiting retro-inspired campgrounds like The Shady Dell in Arizona, where retro trailers are celebrated. Coastal spots like Big Sur or scenic national parks are perfect for showing off your camper’s timeless design while enjoying nature’s beauty.
Shasta Airflyte
Shasta RV lovers, this one’s for you. Get your hands on a limited edition replica of the classic 1961 Shasta Airflyte in matador red, seafoam green, or butternut yellow. Fewer than 2,000 have been produced – get one before they’re all gone!
Gidget Teardrop
This teardrop camper is truly one-of-a-kind. Its front slide extends to nearly doubles the cabin space. Plus, there’s a full kitchen on the back, a solar panel, skylight, and much more. An amazing retro find!
White Water Retro
Looking for a complete lineup of retro-inspired trailers? Riverside RV in LaGrange, Indiana has everything from teardrop trailers, a hybrid model with a tent slide, and several single and double-axle towables. There are tons of RVs to choose from!
Winnebago Brave
We’ve found your perfect ride if a Class A motorhome is more your speed. There’s hardly a more iconic name in road-tripping than Winnebago. The new retro Winnebago Brave maintains that vintage feel perfectly.
It features classic styling on the outside and modern comfort on the inside. While this model was discontinued a few years ago, used ones are still available.
CH Camper
CH Camper is a unique bird in the sense that it builds vintage-new travel trailers customized to the buyer’s tastes. While the company isn’t currently building new trailers, a variety of used CH Campers pop up on the market from time to time. These new-vintage rigs were all built in this century, and they’ll get you rolling in reliable comfort.
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Dub Box
I know what you’re thinking: Please tell me they didn’t cut up a VW bus! Stay calm, campers. No Westys or Vanagons were harmed in the making of this Dub Box. The Dub Box is completely fiberglass, making it lightweight and with plenty of vintage charm. Whether you are looking for a family travel rig or the coolest towable retail business around, the Dub Box is an option you should check out.
T@B Teardrop
Looking for something compact? Teardrops are fantastic towables that still pack in tons of features. At first glance, you may think this is a barebones camper, but there’s a kitchen, wet bath, convertible bed, air conditioning, and more.
How’d they do that? We’re not sure, but don’t count out a teardrop for any of your upcoming adventures. It’s perfect for both a night away or a longer stay!
Happier Camper HC1
The name says it all. A fiberglass egg-style camper that just makes you smile. The Happier Camper HC1 has the cool factor of traditional egg campers but is totally modular, allowing you to stick kayaks, motorcycles, and plenty of other gear inside. Pretty cool, right? These rigs are super light (1100 pounds dry weight), so you can easily pull them with a small vehicle.
Airstream Bambi Sport 16′
An iconic Airstream is about as retro as it gets, right? When conjuring up thoughts of camping and travel, many of us imagine pulling one of these aluminum beauties around. Expect nothing less than luxe with this 16′ Sport – everything is designed and crafted perfectly. If you are traveling with two or three people, it doesn’t get much better than the Bambi.
Scamp/Casita/Fiberglass Egg Campers
Tips for Maintaining the Retro Look of Your New Camper
To keep your retro camper looking fresh while maintaining its classic charm, focus on exterior and interior upkeep. Regularly clean and wax the camper’s exterior to protect vintage-style paint jobs. Inside, retro-inspired accessories can enhance the nostalgic vibe—think checkered floors, diner-style seating, or mid-century furniture. Upgrading appliances while maintaining retro aesthetics is also key. Keep an eye out for vintage decor at flea markets or online for a truly authentic touch.
FAQ: Retro Campers that Are Actually New
See these answers to commonly asked questions about new retro campers:
1. Are retro campers less reliable than modern models?
No, retro campers feature modern construction and technology, making them just as reliable as traditional RVs, but with a vintage look.
2. Can I customize my retro camper’s interior?
Yes, most retro campers are customizable with retro-themed accessories or modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs or energy-efficient appliances.
3. What kind of vehicle do I need to tow a retro camper?
Most retro campers are lightweight and can be towed by mid-sized trucks or SUVs. Check your vehicle’s towing capacity.
4. Are retro campers more expensive than traditional models?
Pricing varies, but retro campers are generally comparable to traditional models, with design features influencing the final cost.
5. How can I maintain the exterior of my retro camper?
Regular cleaning, waxing, and protective covers will help preserve your camper’s vintage-style paint job.
6. Are there any special considerations for insuring a retro camper?
Retro campers are typically insured like other RVs, but it’s worth discussing customizations or rare models with your insurance provider.
7. What’s the typical lifespan of a retro camper?
With proper maintenance, a retro camper can last for decades. Regular checks for wear or damage will extend its life.
8. Can I find retro campers that are all-electric or eco-friendly?
Yes, some retro-inspired campers offer eco-friendly features like solar power and energy-efficient appliances.
9. Are retro campers suitable for year-round use?
Many retro campers have modern insulation and heating/cooling systems, making them suitable for all-season travel.
10. Where can I find vintage-themed accessories for my retro camper?
Vintage-style accessories are available at specialty stores, flea markets, and online retailers, offering options to match your camper’s design.
Additionally, Vintage Trailer Supply is a fantastic online marketplace with a wide array of retro RV options.
All of these retro campers offer a unique vintage vibe. Some folks love Scamps, and others are huge Casita fans. And if you are looking for something that’s easy to tow but still has plenty of comfort, a fiberglass egg camper is the one for you. Their exterior hasn’t changed much over the years, so even new ones retain much of the original retro charm.
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