Best Brand of Сamper: 10 Trusted Brands of 2024 You Can Rely On

Do you know the best brand of camper? Campers are like a home away from home, letting you explore places while having access to necessary amenities. So, which brands should you consider getting? Let’s uncover!

Quick Answer

People highly rate some popular RV brands like Keystone Montana and Lance Camper. These manufacturers offer various models that cater to different needs and budgets. Van life veterans know quality when they see it, and brands like:

1. Oliver Travel Trailers: Stand out with their iconic look, quality construction, and clever designs that maximize space
2. Keystone Montana: Rigs loaded with homey touches yet still adventure-ready, from fifth wheels to class b motorhomes.
3. Lance Camper: Mastered luxury and lightweight travel trailers since the 60s
4. Opus Camper: Ultra-modern, aerodynamic campers turning heads

But listen, those highlights barely scratch the surface. There are so many awesome brands crafting envy-inducing camper vans that will make you want to quit your day job and hit the road tomorrow. Keep reading as I help you choose the best RV brands based on features, pros and cons, reputation, and real customer reviews.

Best Brand of Camper Van: Comparison Chart of Top 10 Options

Travel trailers come in various shapes and sizes to suit different needs and budgets. To help you compare the top brands side-by-side, here’s an overview of their RV lineups, warranty coverage, and pricing:

1. Airstream – The Premium Camper Van Brand

When it comes to iconic top RV brands, Airstream is royalty. This legacy company has been handcrafting its signature aluminum travel trailers down in Jackson Center, Ohio, since the 1930s. Talk about pedigree starting from its founder, Wally Byam.

Airstream is known for producing a wide range of travel trailers and truck campers.

1. All airstream travel trailers have a sleek aerodynamic design and aluminum frame, which makes them easy to tow.
2. They range from compact budget-friendly models like the Airstream Basecamp to mega luxury class B models like the Atlas.
3. Compared to other brands, Airstream trailers have a higher price tag ranging from $48,900 to $310,400. But you get what you pay for with these aluminum gems.
4. 70% of all Airstreams made are still on the road, and you get 20% more fuel efficiency than other box RV trailers.

These factors give them a high resale value, making each purchase economical in the long run.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Airstream has a reputation for building reliable and family-friendly trailers. Go through these real-time reviews to better understand how their products perform in real-world conditions.

1. Airstream Bambi Travel Trailer Review
2. Airstream Classic Review

2. Gulf Stream Coach

Gulf Stream Coach is a family-owned business making quality RVs since 1971 in Nappanee, Indiana. They have kept the travel trailer dream alive for decades by paying close attention to detail while keeping things affordable for the average camper.

Gulf Stream has rolled nearly 3,000 travel units off their production line over the years. That’s some serious output if you ask me. Currently, they have a full lineup of:

1. Lightweight travel trailers;
2. Toy haulers;
3. Fifth wheels for your adventure toys;
4. Roomy destination trailers.

One of their top trailer brands is the Ameri-Lite series, which allows you to customize your price point, floorplan, and overall layout to fit your family’s specific needs. Gulf Stream is popular in the RV world, and you can easily see its products up close at dealerships nationwide. Their price ranges from $25,000 – $90,000.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

When it comes to affordable quality, Gulf Stream seems to hit the mark according to this review:

3. KZ-RV

Ever heard of the Thor juggernaut? Well, KZ-RV has been one of their heavyweight brands for over 50 years. These RVs are designed to be home away from home, whether you’re taking a long road trip or just a short weekend adventure.

Their diverse lineup offers something for every camping crew:

1. Need a cavernous queen-sized master suite? KZ has you covered.
2. Want to go off-grid with a solar power setup for boondocking? They’ve got options.
3. Or maybe you’re that adrenaline junkie who needs a toy hauler to Cart all your gear. No problem.

One of their biggest flexes is the solid craftsmanship that goes into every build. With a KZ trailer, you can kick back and enjoy the journey without stressing over constant repairs for between $21,000 and $125,000.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

While KZ-RV has many satisfied owners, some have experienced quality control issues and poor craftsmanship, as evidenced by this review:

4. Winnebago

When you hear Winnebago, you tap into over 60 years of legendary RV heritage. This iconic American trailer brand was founded in 1958 by businessman John K. Hanson in the great state of Minnesota.

These innovative folks have also led the way on numerous industry firsts, revolutionizing RV tech and designs to keep product lines like the trendy new EKKO models fresh and loaded with game-changing features. This one expands the lineup with off-road prowess, cavernous storage, and a super flexible living area that multi-tasks.

If simple road trips are more your speed, the budget-friendly M-Series travel trailers could be the perfect fit. The basic models cost $10,000 while premium models like fifth wheels and class C motorhomes cost $150,000+. These easy-to-tow rigs offer all the essentials, like home comforts and easy hitching to the tow vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Winnebago’s versatility across different camping styles shines through in some owner experiences. However, the brand is not immune to quality control lapses, as evidenced by this scathing review of a 2022 Winnebago Voyage 3538BR:

5. Grand Design RV

You know what they say, innovation is the mother of all success. And that’s exactly what the founders of Grand Design RV had in mind when they burst onto the scene in 2012 with fresh ideas for the towable RV market. This Indiana-based brand was the brainchild of industry vets Don Clark, Bill Fenech, and Ron Fenech.

Their mission? Deliver high-quality, feature-packed fifth-wheel trailers while increasing customer and dealer satisfaction. Grand Design has become renowned for its rock-solid construction backed by a robust 3-year structural warranty.

They run the gamut from affordable entry-level ($30,000) models to decked-out luxury rigs across travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and lightweight SUV-towable lines costing up to $75,000.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Grand Design has built a strong reputation for innovative designs and solid construction, as many owners rave about the brand:

6. Coachman Industries

When it comes to RVs with true American roots, Coachmen Industries is a name that should ring all kinds of bells. This company kicked off in 1964 when the three Corson brothers, Tom, Keith, and Claude, started cranking out their first rigs in a tiny 5,000 sq ft plant in downtown Middlebury, Indiana.

Today, the Coachmen RV brand is part of the mighty Forest River lineup, including familiar names like Palomino RV, Shasta, and Dynamax. But I don’t think it has lost its trailblazing spirit; they’ve manufactured a staggering 750,000+ RVs over the decades.

No matter what sort of rig fits your travel needs, Coachmen has an option that’ll knock your socks off. We’re talking compact models(from $15,000) to Class A diesel pushers like the luxurious Sportscoach SR5 (up to $200,000).

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Coachmen Industries has decades of experience building quality RVs that provide great memories for families:

7. Oliver Travel Trailers

The Oliver travel trailer brands are known for their sleek fiberglass design. This company was founded in 2006 by Jim Oliver in Hohenwald, Tennessee, with a clear mission: build ultra-durable campers that epitomize outdoor luxury.

From their compact 19.5-foot Small Camper model up to the sprawling 23.6-foot Legacy Elite II, every Oliver sports has impressive off-road capabilities. They have features like:

1. Solar power systems;
2. Beefy battery banks;
3. Large tank capacities.

That’s what lets you get off-grid without sacrificing home-style amenities.

What makes an Oliver stand out is their molded fiberglass shell construction. This method results in a seamless, one-piece exterior resistant to moisture, corrosion, and pretty much anything Mother Nature throws its way.

Of course, this level of robustness and attention to detail doesn’t come cheap. Oliver’s pricing starts at around $65,500 and climbs to $73,500 for their top-tier rigs. But for discerning RVers who value longevity and luxury above all else, that’s a small price to pay.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

When it comes to uncompromising quality and off-grid capability, Oliver Travel Trailers stand out according to satisfied owners:

8. Keystone Montana

Keystone RV Company is a heavyweight known for premium 5th wheel and other travel trailer brands. This luxury division was founded in 1996 by Cole Davis and quickly established itself, earning the #2 spot on Inc.’s prestigious list of fastest-growing companies in 2000.

It wasn’t long before the industry’s biggest player, Thor Industries, took notice and acquired Keystone in 2001. Today, their manufacturing facility in Goshen, Indiana, continues to develop high-quality towable RVs under brand names like:

1. Montana;
2. Cougar;
3. Laredo;
4. Passport;
5. Sprinter.

Keystone doesn’t cut a single corner when it comes to construction, either. Their rigs utilize robust unified frames along with premium materials and cutting-edge engineering. This attention to detail is why Montana owners can expect their investments to remain rock-solid from the first mile to the millionth.

If you want to buy one of these models, you’re looking to spend between $60,000 to $100,000+. But factor in all the home-style amenities like luxurious bathrooms, dream kitchens, fireplaces, and dedicated office spaces, and that pricing starts sounding like a bargain.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Keystone’s Montana line continues to impress RVers with its premium construction and amenity-loaded living spaces:

9. Lance Camper

Few brands can match Lance Camper’s pedigree and longevity in making lightweight travel trailers. This iconic RV manufacturer has been using aluminum and fiberglass rigs since 1965 when founder Richard Murray started it. Now, almost 5 decades later, Lance still delivers unbeatable versatility and craftsmanship in their diverse lineup of travel trailers, truck campers, and toy haulers.

Their commitment to lightweight construction is a major hallmark. The company uses rugged aluminum framing combined with laminated fiberglass walls and aerodynamic profiles to reduce weight while maximizing strength. This allows even their largest 29’5″ fifth wheels to be towed by properly equipped half-ton trucks and or any other towing vehicle.

Another advantage is stellar fuel efficiency, thanks to those slippery designs that easily cut through crosswinds. And let’s not overlook Lance’s eco-friendly construction using sustainable materials and energy-efficient features like solar power systems.

While Lance Campers are costly having a price range of $45,000 – $78,000 price range, they never cut corners on quality or livability. You get home comforts and smart storage solutions for every mile you go.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Lance campers are praised for their reliability and longevity, as evident by this customer review:

10. Opus Camper

Let’s take a sharp turn off the beaten path to an innovative RV brand that’s turning heads and dropping jaws, Opus Camper. This California-based outfit burst onto the scene in 2013 with a clear vision: craft distinctive, go-anywhere campers capable of taking you deeper into outdoor adventures.

The brains behind the operation are founder Jonathan, who oversees the entire Opus juggernaut under the Purple Line parent company. They have a range of eye-catching travel trailers rocking slick folding and expandable chassis that blend easy towing with massive full-time living spaces once set up at camp.

Despite their outlandish designs, Opus trailers keep things nice and grounded with robust uni-body aluminum frames. Depending on crew size, you can pick your flavor of Opus too, from the compact 17.2-foot models ideal for couples up to palace-like 23-footers that’ll have the whole family and then some living large out on the trails.

But here’s the real shocker. Despite dropping jaws with envy-inducing looks and elite features, Opus has democratized things by keeping prices shockingly attainable from $25,000 – $40,000. That kind of value is unheard of for such a cutting-edge specialty rig.

Pros and Cons

Reviews

Opus campers have been praised for offering lightweight travel trailer brands, as seen in this review:

Travel Trailer Brands to Avoid

While there are many excellent RV manufacturers, some brands don’t quite live up to the quality and reliability standards expected by seasoned RVers. It’s wise to do your research and read consumer reviews to avoid ending up with a lemon. Here are a few travel trailer brands that tend to get negative feedback:

1. Jayco: Despite the popularity of this RV manufacturer, Jayco has had widespread complaints about delamination issues, cheap interior fixtures/furnishings, and subpar insulation, leading to moisture problems. Expenses can add up quickly.
2. Fleetwood: This once iconic brand has changed ownership several times, leading to inconsistent build quality. Many owners cite frequent repairs needed, even in lightly used units.
3. Forest River: A huge manufacturer across many price points, but their budget models, in particular, are plagued by poor quality, cheap materials, and quality control lapses, according to reviews.
4. Flagstaff: This Forest River brand is often criticized for using low-quality materials, lack of insulation, and sloppy fit and finish, resulting in premature deterioration.
5. Coleman: While affordable, many owners report significant quality control issues like misaligned doors and windows, plumbing leaks, electrical gremlins, and poor service from the RV manufacturer.

Of course, every RVer’s experience can vary. However, doing comprehensive research on the most frequently reported issues for any brand you’re considering can save you major headaches.

10 Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Trailer

When selecting the best travel trailer for your needs, consider the following factors:

1. Towing Capacity: Ensure your tow vehicle can safely handle the loaded trailer’s weight within its towing capacity limits.
2. Payload Capacity: Understand the trailer’s payload capacity (gross vehicle weight rating), and don’t overload it beyond 85% of the limit.
3. Water Consumption: Evaluate your water needs and choose a trailer with appropriate fresh, gray, and black water tank capacities.
4. Route Terrain: Consider the terrains and road conditions you’ll be traveling on, and select a trailer with suitable ground clearance and off-road capabilities.
5. Length Restrictions: Choose a trailer length that you can easily maneuver, fits within campsite size limits, and accommodates your storage facility.
6. Sleeping Capacity: Ensure the trailer has wide open living spaces (beds, bunks, convertible areas) to accommodate your travel party comfortably.
7. Kitchen and Bathroom Facilities: Assess your needs for a functional kitchen, bathroom, and other desired amenities like a separate shower.
8. Storage Space: Look for ample interior and exterior storage compartments to carry all your gear, supplies, and belongings.
9. Climate Control: Consider insulation, heating, and air conditioning systems for comfortable living in various weather conditions.
10. Power Supply: Evaluate your power needs (appliances, electronics) and choose a trailer with adequate electrical, solar, or generator options.

All these factors will play a role in ensuring you don’t get disappointed with your first RV.

The Ultimate Checklist for Buying a Travel Trailer

Buying the perfect travel trailer for your adventures is an exciting process. However, you must consider several factors to ensure you get one of the best travel trailer brands. To ensure you don’t overlook any crucial details, refer to this comprehensive checklist when trailer shopping:

Livability Musts

• Sleeping quarters with enough bunks for your crew
• Residential-style kitchen with ample counter and storage space.
• The bathroom offers privacy with a functional toilet, shower, and sink.
• Abundant interior storage for clothes, camping gear, and road essentials
• Open living area with comfortable seating for dining and relaxing.

Operational Essentials

• Durable climate-controlled construction with thick insulation
• Efficient heating and A/C system for ultimate interior comfort
• Self-sufficiency with built-in power from generators, solar, or batteries
• Freshwater tank capacity sized for your camping needs

On-Road Preparedness

• Weight-distributing hitch system to promote stability when hooked to a tow vehicle
• Sway control mechanisms to resist fierce crosswinds
• Heavy-duty stabilizer jacks for security when parked
• Up-to-date safety features like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
• Properly installed seat belts for safe passenger travel

Camping Amenities

• Exterior awnings to create shaded outdoor living rooms
• Exterior lighting and prepping areas for open-air cooking
• Pass-through storage to haul bikes, coolers, sporting equipment

Construction Integrity

• Premium materials and construction to withstand rugged use
• Aerodynamic, modern styling for towing efficiency
• Name-brand reliable chassis, appliances, and components

Whether you’re shopping for a trailer with low specs or a heavy-duty truck camper, referring to this checklist will help you critic through the fluff to find the perfect RV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So, which is the best brand of camper? When choosing the top trailer brands for outdoor enthusiasts, there are excellent options across all budgets and needs. For those seeking ultra-luxury and iconic styling, Airstream’s premium aluminum trailers from $48,900 – $310,400 are hard to beat.

Adventurous souls will appreciate the off-road capabilities and robust construction of brands like Lance ($45,000 – $78,000), Oliver ($65,500 – $73,500), and Opus ($25,000 – $40,000). Larger families can spread out in spacious fifth wheels and bunkhouse models from respected names like Grand Design, Keystone Montana ($60,000 – $100,000+), and Winnebago.

And if value is your top priority, respected legacy manufacturers like Gulf Stream Coach and Coachmen deliver quality rigs packed with amenities, often for under $50,000.

Whether you envision blissful national park getaways, boondocking escapades, or cross-country road trips, the ideal home-on-wheels from these top camper trailer brands await to make your travel dreams a reality.