casita travel trailer air conditioner

A/C Mod (thermostat for the A/C)

The “A/C Mod” is one of the most popular upgrades for 2018 and older Casitas. From the factory, the roof mounted air conditioner fan runs constantly and the compressor cycles on and off. It’s noisy and wasteful. Also, the mechanical temperature dial is hard to set because there are no numbers. The “mod” is to install a digital thermostat to control the roof top unit and the propane furnace (if equipped). The thermostat cycles power to the A/C via a relay so the whole thing shuts off when it’s not called for.

I can’t take credit for inventing the mod, that goes to Gene from the Casita forum, and Larry from Little House Customs for installing hundreds of them.

This article summarizes the installation. For detailed instructions, see this PDF document.

I use a battery powered Honeywell non-programmable thermostat model RTH111B. It’s available from the Amazon link, Home Depot or Lowes. I tried the fancier backlit model, but it’s more expensive, the batteries don’t last as long, and I had a bad one out of the box once.

The “magic” relay takes 12 volt DC current from the thermostat and cycles 120 volt AC power to the roof A/C unit is available from Mouser . Also needed are a pair of yellow 12 gauge female spade connectors and a pair of blue 16 gauge .187 female spade connectors as seen in the photo.

The blue outlet box is a standard “old work” style box with the tabs and screws removed and the bump drilled out of the bottom so the relay will lay down flat. Stainless screws are used to secure the relay in the box. Not pictured is a solid outlet box cover screws in place on top to seal it.

A 12 volt toggle switch is used to kill power to the furnace when using the electric heat strip. If you don’t have a propane furnace, it’s not required.

Not pictured are 12 gauge solid wire, 12 gauge stranded wire, 16 gauge stranded wire, and a 12 gauge wire tap.

The Install

I drill out the rivets and remove the old furnace thermostat. The 2 wires need to be tested to see which is positive and negative. Holes are drilled for new wires and the toggle switch. The new thermostat is mounted and screwed into place. In the microwave cabinet the wiring takes place. With a built in microwave, the round vent rivet is drilled out and pivoted out of the way for access. If the space is a pantry, the glued in carpet needs to be peeled back for access. The thermostat is wired according to the directions. Of note a second jumper pin has to be made (thermostats only come with one). I use sections of solid core thermostat wiring bent into little “U”s. It’s tedious, but works.

16 gauge wire from the thermostat is run to the upper rear cabinet in the “TV corner”. That wire goes up into the cabinet above the microwave and makes it way to the back corner with some 1/4″ holes, lots of tucking into carpet seams, and even more patience.

With power shut off to the Casita, the back corner electrical outlet taken out. One of the 2 black wires on the outlet is the wire to the A/C unit. Once it is identified and removed, it is extended to the relay box with a section of new wire, attaching to the relay with a stranded jumper and wire nut. The second AC wire is run back to the outlet and put in place of the removed wire. Now the relay can interrupt the AC circuit to the roof unit.

You can’t use a crimp connector on solid core wire, which is why we make a jumper from stranded wire and it connects to the solid core wire via a wire nut.

The thermostat wire runs to the relay, and a new ground wire is run from the relay and tapped into the white ground wire of either the 12 volt outlet or TV antenna amp in the back corner.

Once everything is tested and works, the relay box cover goes on and the box is strapped to the existing outlet box in the upper back corner.

There are 2 ways to run the system. The new thermostat can cycle power on and off to the unit so the fan stops when not needed. Or the thermostat can be “maxed out” and use the knobs on the unit to operate the old way with constant fan.

Air Conditioning: Roof dial to “cool low” or “cool high” and temperature knob full cold. Now set thermostat to “cool” and set the temperature. Since the roof unit is always asking for cooling (knob at full cold), the thermostat handles when it runs.

Electric heat (if equipped): Roof dial to “heat” and temperature knob to full hot. Toggle switch “off”. Set thermostat to “heat” and set temperature.

Propane heat: Roof dial to “off”, toggle switch “on”, thermostat to “heat” and set temperature.

Now say you’re in a noisy campground and you want the fan to run all night. To use the roof unit the “old” way, do the following:

Air Conditioning: Thermostat to “cool”, and set to 60 degrees. Roof knobs to “Cool low” or Cool high” and set temperature knob to your liking.

Electric Heat: Toggle switch “Off”. Thermostat to “heat” and set to 90 degrees. Roof knobs to “heat” and set temperature knob to your liking.

Greg Zimmerman

Curry hammock state park, crawl key, fl, keypad lock, 25 comments.

We love this mod. No more fan running all night. And propane furnace cycles when needed.

My unit has a heater that reverses to produce cool. Will this hack work?

It depends on how your heat pump knows to switch from cold to heat. Is it a setting on the unit or in the thermostat? This is fairly “dumb” mod that only cycles power on and off to the A/C unit based off the digital thermostat. It won’t be able to tell the unit to go from cool to heat without some fancier wiring. But if there’s a “heat/cool” switch on the unit itself, then the mod can be used to cycle power to it.

Nice write up ! 👍…..only problem is my 2012 Freedom does not have the furnace…..what part would change for me then..?

The only difference is you don’t need the furnace cut off switch and you have to source 12 volts+ from a different source for the thermostat. So likely you’ll run 2 wires from the TV corner to the thermostat location. Or maybe the furnace wiring is in there anyways that you could utilize for the power.

Thanks for the reply and help…..you have done a great job on your write ups…..I found you on the Casita forums…. “kcdaniels”……

[…] Casita Projects […]

Is there a way to thermostat control a non thermostat controlled rooftop AC unit on my 2000 5th wheel

Depends on what model A/C it is. Coleman has a new bluetooth remote unit. https://www.airxcel.com/rv/coleman-mach/products/accessories/bluetooth-ceiling-assembly

Greg, I did that exact mod on my 2007 Casita 17FD. I have been very pleased with it working well to cut off the fan when the proper (set on thermostat() is reached. However, I have had an issue that perhaps is related to the mod.

The issue is that my Casita drains the battery very fast when it is not plugged into AC but with nothing running or on in the trailer. I am thinking that the problem may be that when the trailer is not being used, the thermostat energizes the relay. Since there is no AC pluggedin, the relay stays energized and adds a drain to the battery.

Am I correct in my analysis? And am I correct that now that I think about it, perhaps if I turned the thermostat to OFF, the drain from the relay would not exist.?

Further, sunce you seem to be an elecltical guru, could you please tell me what you estimate the normal battery drain. Should be. I measured the current at the battery to be about 400 mA when the battery is at about 80% charge (determined by a digital battery charg meter I plug into the DC outlet by the TV corner). Thus between 100 and 60% charge on average about 1 A Hr (or Amp) is used per day.. I plotted % charge over time for about two weeks, and the points closely follow a line that is plotted for total Amp (100 A nominal fo rmy battery) declining by 1%/day.

Thanks for any comments,

Initially I was going to say no. However if you leave the thermostat set to cool and have the trailer unplugged, the thermostat will in fact energize the relay. I’ve always turned the thermostat to “OFF” when in storage that was never an issue for me. The biggest culprit for battery drain is the propane detector. It’s hard wired to the battery and always drains power because it has a small heating element in there. That’s why I install a battery disconnect to unhook the battery while in storage. Otherwise the battery will die in about 3 weeks. Casita started installing disconnect switches in 2019.

Thank you. Rather than install a switch (because the space is so limited in the battery compartment) I did install a terminal block that allows me to disconnect the positive battery terminal on the block with a battery wing nut. However, it is easy ro forget to disconnect it after returning from a trip. Lately folks have figurted out how to install a switch, so I might do that also. I take it that you agree that without a switch or disconnect, the thermostat should be put in the off position.

Thanks for your helpful site. On the Casita forums there is much discussion of using Hunter thermostats — any thoughts on that versus the Honeywell one you suggest?

I have no personal experience with them, but no reason why not to. My local Lowe’s carried the Honeywell in stock so it was easy to buy when doing a job.

I have a question.. Do I need the toggle switch if I don’t have electric heat with the Ac unit? I have propane heat that goes to a two wire stat.. I just installed an upgraded Honeywell T stat and hooked the furnace up to that.. Im now thinking about doing your mod and thinking I wouldn’t need the toggle.. What do you think?

Yes, the toggle switch is there to make sure the furnace doesn’t come on at the same time as the A/C. You can only omit the toggle switch if you do not have a propane furnace.

Ok thanks Greg

I caught the battery drain comments. My question is that if running off the battery and using the propane furnace the thermostat will kick on the relay and sap extra power from the battery draining it faster as well. I use a cpap machine so all battery charge is needed. Would maybe adding an additional on/off switch to AC/heat strip be needed?

I’m no electrical engineer, but the current drain on the relay is minimal. According the specs it might only be 1 watt max if I’m reading the chart right. If it’s a concern, you could always add a second switch that kills power to the relay when you don’t need the ac/heat strip. Or make it a 3 way switch, but then you can’t run furnace and heat strip together (not sure why anyone would need to…)

Here’s the spec sheet on the relay: https://www.mouser.com/datasheet/2/418/4/NG_DS_1308242_T9A_0312-199557.pdf

I have a A/c where the fan runs all the time. and compressor kicks in and out as needed per ceiling knob cold adjustment. So I dont have to listen to fan run all night and once trlr is cool. Im thinking I can keep a compressor thermostat knob on full and put a 120 volt elect baseboard heater type that is double pole to 120v line in. BUTZ I need a 120v cooling thermostat, not a 120v heating thermostat. Do they make a 120v cooling thermostat AND will controlling the 120v line in work w/o damaging other a/c components???

Honestly I don’t know if they do or not. I wouldn’t trust a high voltage thermostat because it’s hard to run the wiring up to code (that stuff is dangerous). I am comfortable running 12 volt lines through the cabinets and modifying the AC outlet just enough to run the AC mod though.

I feel very comfortable work w/ 120v. and wiring to code.

Another option is to use a thermostat that works with heat pumps. That way the Y terminal is used both for heating and cooling, and there is usually an L/AUX terminal that is energized for “emergency heat”. Use that one for the gas furnace.

where does the new 12 gauge solid wire go? where does the 12 gauge wire tap go?

The new solid wire goes from the TV power outlet to the relay box. The reason for the wire nut is to put a short length of stranded wire to the solid wire because you can’t put a crimp on connector onto solid wire. The crimp connector goes onto the relay. Hope that makes sense.

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Casita Travel Trailer Tour Freedom Deluxe 17

• by Marc Bennett
• Updated: January 8, 2024
• 28 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links .

Take a tour of our little Casita trailer camper as we show you the inside and out. It’s a 2019 Casita Freedom Deluxe 17′ travel trailer that we tow with our Jeep Cherokee – and yes it even comes with a bathroom. In this video and post, we’ll show you what it came optioned with, as well as the specs and tank capacities. 

In our last blog post and video, we shared the big news of our recent purchase: a second/additional RV to our motorhome. You can catch the backstory of why we decided to buy this little Casita trailer here in this post with a video.

You can watch the related video for a more visual tour . But we recommend reading the full post below for additional details and information.

RV Tour of the Outside of our Casita Trailer

As you can see, this camper is pretty small. It is not much longer than the Jeep we tow it with. Our Casita trailer is 17 feet long, under 9 feet tall, and under 7 feet wide. The smaller 16’ version of this trailer is only 7’8” feet tall since it does not have a rooftop air conditioner and has a lower interior height. Our 17’ trailer only weighs 2,500 pounds empty and can carry a maximum of about 1,000 pounds of water and cargo when fully loaded. 

By comparison, our Country Coach motorhome is 40 feet long, 12 feet tall, and 8.5 feet wide, weighing 32,000 pounds. And it is quite luxurious and spacious, especially after our Ultimate RV Makeover .

The Casita Trailer Fiberglass Construction Style

One of the best things about these little fiberglass shell trailers is their construction style. It is basically made up of two shells attached at the center, then attached to a base frame. This virtually eliminates seams/seals, which makes it virtually leakproof, pest-proof, and super easy to maintain. 

Some fiberglass shell trailers (like Oliver) take a step further and build double-hull shells, providing even better insulation. These Casita trailers are single hulls and are lined with carpet inside. The shells create the structure, so there is no need for internal framing with wood or metals. In fact, most of the internal cabinetry and internal walls are also made of large molded fiberglass pieces.

It is put together with rivets, like Airstreams. But there are so few pieces, so it doesn’t need nearly as many rivets. We love that this model has many large windows considering its small size. They make for a light and bright interior and lots of ability to take in the views surrounding your campsite.

Walking Around The Casita Exterior

Up front, there are two 20-pound propane tanks. Ours also has the upgraded electric tongue jack for even easier connecting and disconnecting to our tow vehicle. We also have the high lift package and aluminum wheels.

On the street side, there is a city water connection near the back, an outside shower in the middle, and the sewer connections are located toward the front of the camper.

There is also a 6-gallon water heater and a small storage area for the power cord with enough room to include an extension cord and an adapter in case you don’t park where there is a 30-amp power supply.  

Speaking of power, we are impressed that this little camper can run well off a regular 20amp 120 outlet. It can even run the air conditioner because it only needs a small air conditioning unit to keep it cool. There is also a battery bay that originally housed a single 44 usable amp hour lead acid battery. 

Update: After our first few camping trips, we upgraded it to a 100amp-hour Battle Born Lithium Battery .

Back and Curb Side of Exterior

Around the back is a bumper that houses a sewer hose, and our unit has two stabilizer jacks. There is also a freshwater tank fill. But most of the back of the trailer is taken up by the huge window. There are big windows on three sides toward the rear of the camper.

On the curb/patio side of the camper there is a small storage area and the ability to check the water level of your fresh water tank. There is no fresh water gauge. If you want to see how much water you have, you just open this bay and look at the tank. 

Our little camper has the upgraded 23-gallon fresh water tank. The standard size is 16 gallons. The large 32-gallon grey tank is located on the belly of the trailer, and the 15-gallon black tank is at the front under the toilet. Exterior storage is extremely limited. 

Our Casita trailer also has an upgraded awning, outside shower, furnace, and a huge list of interior upgrades. The original owners ordered this little camper loaded up with just about every option, even a Casita cover (which has never been used).

What is it like Inside our Casita Freedom Deluxe?

Though this is a pre-owned, one-year-old RV, it is in like new condition because the first owners only used it three times. They never used the toilet, shower, furnace, or many of the other features because they stayed at campgrounds and used campground facilities.

Being just 17 in total length, as you would expect, it is pretty compact inside. The living area is less than 14 feet long, and Marc can literally stand in the middle and touch both side walls with his arms outstretched. The total square feet is probably around 80-90. The interior height is a bit over 6’ tall, which is fine for us because we are not tall. That said, at only 5’8”, Marc has hit his head quite a few times on the low spots in doorways.

The general layout of our Freedom Deluxe includes a bathroom and small closet up front, to the right as you enter the trailer. Two swivel chairs are at a small table and a kitchen area is in the middle. At the rear of our camper, there is a bed that could be converted into a dinette area, but we leave it set up as a bed at all times. The interior walls are either fiberglass or carpet-lined for insulation and sound reduction. Yep, there is carpet on the walls, but the flooring is wood looks vinyl.

More Detail On Our Casita Trailer Interior

Starting at the front, the closet right as you enter is larger than it first appears because it is quite deep. We chose to hang a few clothes but felt the space was better utilized by using a hanging shoe rack, rolling our clothes, and using the cubbies for other storage. The base of the closet is good for bulky items like leveling blocks and tools. 

The Middle / Main Cabin Living Area

On the patio side of the main area, there is a kitchen. It has a 3-way fridge at the bottom, an optional microwave, and storage at the top. It is all built into a fiberglass mold, which makes it really clean-looking and solid. The cabinet doors on ours are all light gray. Previous years often had brown wood grain cabinet doors. We really like the more modern look of the gray cabinets in the 2019 model. Also, all the cabinets have locking handles to keep everything in place while in motion. And they really do work well.

The Freedom model has two swivel chairs at a small table. The chairs are quite comfy, and the swivel is nice because you feel like you aren’t locked into a small rigid space of other units. But, unlike those models with fixed seats, this dining area will not convert to an extra sleeping area. One of the fun things about a small camper is that nothing is ever far away. 

For example, I could be sitting at the dining table and getting something out of the fridge or microwave, or setting my dishes in the sink, grabbing some silverware from the drawer, or grabbing something off the bed. All of which without leaving my seat.

The kitchen area also has a small sink and a two-burner stovetop. You can use the stove top lid, a sink cover, or the dining table for prep space, as there isn’t any other counter space. We really like how the lid for the stove serves as a splash/splatter guard to protect the bed area from getting messy. 

Bedroom / Dinette of Our Casita Trailer

The bedroom area can also be used for dining if you had a family and make it up as a bed each night. But we leave it permanently set up as a bed. It’s a double-size mattress of around 54″ x 76″ with two rounded edges. So if you wanted your own replacement mattress, you’d need to get one custom-made to fit . 

This model came with a TV which is mounted to the wall, but we’ll likely end up removing that. It also has a 12-volt charging outlet and a power outlet up near the TV (and another down under the dinette.)

There are three storage cabinets above the bed. The largest cabinet (other than the closet up front) is at the very back above the bed. You could probably stuff most of your bed linens or sleeping bags in there if you converted the space to a dinette. 

There are cabinets all along the upper part of the interior. Depending on how you option a Casita, you might have even more storage. For example, if you choose not to order a microwave or furnace, both of those areas become storage.

More Bedroom Area Details

By always leaving ours in the bed position, we also have a huge storage area underneath the middle of the bed. Only the middle, though, because one side is the fresh water tank, and the other is the hot water heater, battery, and other mechanicals. It is big enough to slide a large laundry basket in there with room to spare.

Our bed is quite comfortable because the previous owner bought a bed ‘case’ that you stuff the original cushions in, zip it up, and have a built-in pillow top. It feels like a real mattress, not just a few cushions laid down to pretend to be a bed. It works well for people our size but would be a bit cramped for taller folks. 

For perspective, Marc is 5’8” tall, and Julie is about 4’8” tall.  Julie sleeps at the very back because that part of the bed is curved on the ends, reducing the length. When Marc lays in the bed with the pillow touching the wall, his toes can touch the opposite wall. So if you are much taller, you might need to bend your knees or consider one of the other Casita trailer models with 6” longer beds, like the Independence or Liberty.

The Casita Trailer Bathroom

The Deluxe versions of Casita trailers have a small wet bath at the front. I say small, but it is actually bigger than some other wet baths I have been in. There is quite a bit of room to have a shower, and you don’t need to straddle the toilet to do so. It is great that it is all one-piece white fiberglass inside the wet bath, making it easy to wipe down and keep clean. Also, with a small window and fan, it can air out and dry out pretty efficiently.

There is storage for bottles on shelves, and also some water-tight cubbies down low that have a marine-like feel. The toilet is a simple plastic gravity flush that drops straight into the black tank. There isn’t a gauge for the tank. If you want to know how much is in there, you need to grab a flashlight and look down the hole.

There’s a tall mirror on the outside of the bathroom door, facing into the living area. The door tends to get in the way a bit. We’re considering removing it and replacing it with a curtain.

How Does The Casita Trailer Tow?

The Casita’s egg-like shape is great for aerodynamic efficiency, whether from the head winds of being towed or with crosswinds.  It tows amazingly well behind our 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk with the V6, 9-speed transmission, and towing package. Our Jeep is rated to tow 4500 pounds. But FYI, most Jeep Cherokees are only rated for 2000, which is a great reminder to always be aware of your vehicle ratings before towing. We were impressed that we could average 20mpg towing the camper from Texas back up to Colorado.

Our Overall Thoughts So Far

We really do love how efficiently laid out it is. A lot of RV goodness is packed into this little space, and we think it is very well thought out. Casita offers four different floor plans in the 17-foot length. Each is offered in standard or deluxe. The deluxe models include a bathroom in the area that is normally just storage or a bunk bed in the standard model. Ours is the 17-foot Freedom Deluxe.

We have also been loving our trips in the Casita trailer. It is so fun having a smaller, more nimble camper that we can park just about anywhere. Whether boondocking on a remote, rough road, squeezing into a tiny campsite, or parked in a friend’s or family member’s driveway are all easy. Especially compared to when we are used to trying to find places to put our 40’ Class A motorhome. 

The floor plan works great for us. We plan to make a few little changes as we get more organized and start personalizing it for our needs. So far, we are super happy with how easy it is to tow, park, set up, and maintain.  

Specifications of our 2019 Casita Freedom Deluxe 17' Trailer

Here’s how our 2019 Casita Freedom Deluxe 17′ came optioned, as ordered by the original owners, along with specs:

Standard Inclusions

• Four cu ft Dometic refrigerator with freezer
• Flat entrance door with screen
• Large rear window (slides open with screen)
• Roof mounted Air Conditioner with Heating Element
• Rear dinette/bed
• Pull out trailer step at the entrance
• 32 Gallon Grey Water Tank

  Optional Extras of our Casita Trailer

• Aluminum Cased Patio Awning
• 23 Fresh Water Tank Upgrade
• Microwave Oven
• LED Interior and Exterior Lights
• 15″ Aluminum Alloy Wheels
• Electric Tongue Jack
• Friction Anti-Sway Control
• Casita Trailer Cover
• High Lift Suspension Package with High Lift Axle and 15″ D Range Tire Upgrade
• Flat Screen 22″ HD Television with DVD Player
• Air Conditioner Roof Mount
• Water Heater 6 Gallon, Gas, Electric, Electronic Ignition with By-Pass Kit
• Outside Shower/Wash Station

Funnily enough, we recently discovered that we have had the 2019 model brochure for over a year, and that’s the exact model we bought, albeit lightly used!

How to Buy a Casita Trailer

We found ours via an ad listing on RVTrader.com, and you can often find them on Craigs’ List or in Owner’s Groups. Casita trailers are not sold through dealers. Instead, they sell directly to consumers from the Manufacturing and Sales Facility in Rice Texas. If you want to learn more, their website is www.casitatraveltrailers.com ; phone 1-800-442-9986.

You can order the base Casita trailer in 16′ and 17′ lengths, as a Standard or Deluxe (with bathroom) and choose from 4 floor plans. You can option it pretty much however you like, which will impact the price. We bought ours a year old, and while it wasn’t a huge saving on buying new, it did mean we were able to get it now instead of waiting several months for a new delivery. And it came with some upgrades that the previous owner added.

Finally, this is NOT a sponsored post or video. We have NO affiliation with Casita. But if you do happen to buy one, let them know if our blog post / video was helpful to you. Maybe they’ll share some of our posts.

Are you a Casita trailer or other fiberglass camper owner, too?  Let us know in the comments below. And give us a wave if you see us out and about!

GOT COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS?

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• Wholesale Warranties  – get a free quote, great price on an RV extended warranty
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• Thousand Trails Camping Memberships  – saves us money on camping
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If you have any questions at all about these resources and providers, please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to help.

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28 thoughts on “casita travel trailer tour freedom deluxe 17”.

Hi! We are Larry and Judy from Texas! We just got our Casita 10 days ago. We got the Spirit Deluxe. We had it home for 3 days and then took off on a business trip so we pulled it behind us to Tyler State Park for 3 nights. Larry said pack lite the first trip and we’ll determine what we need! On our last night in the park, another Casita pulled in. I got so excited to see another one. Anyway, LOVE our little home away from home! Really enjoy reading about your adventures. So long for now!

Hello and congrats on your new Casita! They are SUCH cute little campers – we get comments on ours ALL the time! Definitely small though so ONLY take what you absolutely need. Have fun – there is a great group of owners that. meet up at events and rallies too! You might like to check that out! Safe and happy travels!

Hi there from Rio Rancho, NM near Albuquerque. We ordered a 17ft Freedom Deluxe Casita from the factory in January and expect to receive it early June. We saw a real one owned by a couple near us and tried the chairs and before ordering. Unlike you, we are moving UP from an Aliner, so it will seem palatial, and ditching the “luggable loo” bucket for a bathroom—woohoo!!! We have a new ‘21 Subaru Ascent for towing. We bought many of the same options you have, plus solar and the upgraded battery. We own 13.5 acres of land in the Jemez mountains where we plan to camp, as well as hitting the road to explore. LOVED your video and YES…PLEASE do post more about your Casita, ESPECIALLY your storage tips and any other “hacks” you discover.

Hi there! Congrats on your new soon-to-be-yours Casita! You will love it! It WILL feel palatial by comparison to your Aliner LOL What a beautiful area you have to camp on! So glad you enjoyed the video and we definitely have more Casita videos and RV storage/organization tips we want to share. Been busy working on our next book for the last few weeks (you will love it based on what you have shared) but we hope to getting caught up on our other content soon! Thanks for sharing!

At 6’4″ tall I slept many nights in the 2002 Casita that we owned using a smaller pillow. I towed it with a V6 Nissan Xterra which they discontinued in 2014. It did an excellent job of towing it. There are 2 Casita web sites which are quite good.

If you are in the area of Rice TX, south of Dallas you can visit the factory. They are friendly folks and will give you a tour so that you can see how they are built.

HI Herb! Thanks for sharing. Wow 6’4″ and you still made it work sleeping in the Casita – which floor plan did you have? Great to hear your Nissan Xterra towed it well, we have been surprised at how well it tows behind our Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk (6 cylinder). We have joined some of the Casita Facebook groups, and planned to do a tour of the factory while we were down there, but they are not doing tours right now due to COVID. No doubt we will get down there at some point! Safe travels to you!

HI Thanks for the video, very helpful to me as I make plans to buy my first FG RV. I am torn between the Casita 17 deluxe and the Scamp. I would travel on my own with occasional guests so either would work. Do you have any pros and cons when comparing the scamp 16(option 6) and the Casita 17 deluxe ? Especially in the areas of value vs. cost, quality and durability. tow ease and clearance from the ground are important to me as well, since I see a little off road time in my future. I will tow with a 2020 honda ridgeline. Thanks Teresa [email protected]

Hello Teresa, As you know, the Casita and Scamp are very similar products. Personally, we just feel that the styling and the fit and finish is higher in the Casita. Also… my brother had a Scamp a few years ago, and had a few issues with it. I think that in general, they are both really good quality little campers, but we like the Casita better in terms of quality. That extra foot longer Casita gains quite a bit over the 16 foot versions (whether Scamp or Casita 16). Weight is similar on both, and both are WELL within the towing capacity of your 2020 Ridgeline. If optioned with the high lift package (like ours) you will get much more clearance, larger wheels, and more durable tires for any off road adventures. At the end of the day, you will likely be happy with either one, but as evidenced by our choice in getting the Casita, it was a better fit for what was important to us. Thank you and wishing you great travels ahead. -M

Do you plan to take the Casita along on your travels? That will require that both of you drive. That is the main thing keeping us from adding a small trailer to our current Motorhome + Jeep TH w Towing Package setup.

HI David, to be honest we’re still working out the longer term plan… but we have spent the past 6+ months in Colorado (where Marc’s family is) to ride out COVID, and so we haven’t done much travel with both at all. Just stayed regional. Mainly the motorhome has been a base and we like to take the Casita on smaller trips – like over to Denver with the Jeep where we can park it in family’s driveway and have our own space, or to Ouray and Telluride. Mostly Marc drives the motorhome while Julie tows the Casita with the Jeep, which we don’t mind, but like we said, we have not traveled extensively with both. Fortunately we have already visited all 50 states already, and with the pandemic, we’re happy to slow our travel pace for a while and lay low. We have considered getting an annual site for the motorhome as a base then bouncing out with the Jeep and Casita for trips, but the Casita isn’t really set up for long term extended travel as it’s not as good for working from. We’re just wanting to stay fairly close to family for a while, so we can be close by in case anyone (like Marc’s mom) needs us, we can get there quickly. Funny you are also considering a similar setup! Hope that helps!

My husband is 6’ 1” and we just purchased a Tesla model Y with 3500 towing capacity. The Casita seems like a good fit-do any of their models have a bigger bed and more headroom?

Congrats on your new Tesla. Casita does offer two other floor plans that have longer beds (Independence is probably best). At 6’1″ you will definitely want a 17′ not a 16′ length as they have the taller ceiling heights. Also at that height, don’t plan on ever wearing shoes inside or walking tall, as he is right at the limit. -M

Hi! I can’t believe y’all purchased the Casita Freedom Deluxe. My husband and I took delivery of ours in Mid-July of this year (it is a 2020). It’s our first ever RV and we love her (named her The Desert Rose because our first big trip was to Big Bend National Park). We got most of your upgrades, but opted for the anti-sway bar and passed on the cover. Our TV is a 2019 Nissan Frontier V6 with the bigger engine, 15” wheels and tow package. We didn’t get nearly the mpg’s you did with the Jeep, but we didn’t expect to. We also enjoy our Desert Rose as our guest quarters and my she-shed. Tons of information, modifications, etc in the fiberglass RV forum and the Casita ‘Bible’ by Eileen Glick. I look forward to reading about the modifications you make for yourself. (First Suggestion: water cut off valve for the toilet). If you figure out how to install the Lagun table in the small dinette area – please post it!! The flexibility it provides would be marvelous, but the support requirements make it challenging without the box dinette. You were lucky to find your Freedom. I hope you love her as much as we do. Travel Well, Texas Rose

How fun that you have virtually the same unit as us, and even similar towing capacity. Great choice in our opinion. LOL.. Thank you for the suggestions on where to get more information and your first suggestions on improvements. So happy that you love yours so much. Looking forward to sharing more with you. Thanks again, -M

Would you have enough room to add a solar power rig? Panels on the roof, batteries etc down below…

Hi Peter, There is enough room for a small scale solar install. Probably with flexible panels on the roof. Lithium would allow for substantial power increases with limited space and weight. We will definitely be looking into multiple stages of power improvements on this Casita over time, including considering a generator since many of the onboard systems could run on a low wattage genny. We will definitely be sharing upgrades we make as time goes on. -M

The tow vehicle is a jeep trailhawk. Do not get one ever. Those have so many mechanical problems it is not funny. I ended up with a ton of recalls and even after trading it in? I never received my refund from Chrysler. Anything but a trailhawk. Buy be forewarned.

Knock on wood, but ours has been absolutely flawless for the two years+ we have owned it (and it is currently 5 years old with a bit over 50K miles. Sorry you had such challenges with yours. -M

I too pull a 17′ Casita with a Jeep TH. I looked and planned for a year before junping in with both feet. Photos from several trips are on the website but I haven’t posted the most recent trips. For me, I could not imagine a better rig.

Thanks for sharing. Cool that you have the same set up. It really is a wonderful combination. -M

This would be great for full-timers who are working remotely and need some private space away from family and pets.

We had the same thought… that it could be a separate little space when traveling with both RVs. -M

Suggestion ( we have an 09 Spirit Deluxe, has a dinette instead of the chairs . Move the paper towel rack to the outset of the cabinet over the microwave, secure the roll with a small bunjee . If attach it just right, the cabinet will still open up all the way. Congratulations ! We are kinda backwards , our Ram 2500 is 2’ longer than the Casita. Congrats! Stay safe.

Cool that you have a 2009 Spirit Deluxe. Very similar floor plan. Thanks for the suggestion on the paper towel rack.Wow… your Ram would make VERY easy work of towing the Casita. Similar to the folks we bought from. They had a 3/4 ton GMC. -M

We started with a Casita and really loved it. Ours was 2005. We have since upsized to a larger but still Fiberglass molded trailer. ENJOY your Casita, they are great little campers.

Cool that you started with a Casita, and have stayed with the molded fiberglass style for your second one. We love it, and have heard so many positive comments from others as well. -M

Greetings. We pull a nuCamp t@b 400 Boon Dock Lite with a Jeep Grand Cherokee V6. Love the smaller trailer aspect and we are fortunate that our 400 as a bed/sleeping area and a separate eating area for two. I did notice you have a portable fridge sat out by the door. We do as well in the form an an ARB 50qt. It rides in the back of our Jeep Grand Cherokee and is powered by a DC port in the jeep but when we park, we switch over to AC To haul our chairs, small table, outdoor rug and removable awning, we have a Thule installed on the Jeep Roof. I’m curious where you store all those leveling blocks? Don’t the stabilizers go down further? We have just six for our t@b, one under each of the four stabilizers with two spares. On the tongue we keep the wheel and use a yellow plastic jack wheel. The weight dry of your trailer is 2500lbs with a max of 3500lbs. If your Jeep Cherokee has the V6 you have a towing capacity of 4500lbs max and a payload capacity of 1,250 to 1,790 lbs. Have you had any issues with this tow configuration in the mountains?

Hello John, Yes, we have a lot in common with you. Towing with a V6 Cherokee (though yours is a Grand), and very similar trailers as far as weights and capacities. We do the same as you with our Dometic cooler. plugged into 12V (in the Jeep or in the Casita) while driving, then out next to the camper when we park. Rugs and camp chairs often ride in the camper, but we also have a Thule rack like you and now keep many light bulky items up top so we have them wherever we go. Stabilizers do go down further, but since we have the extra blocks, it is less movement for the stabilizers. We have been super impressed with how well our Jeep (yes V6 rated at 4500 lbs and 9 speed transmission) does towing in the mountains. We have gone over multiple Colorado passes at 10,000 ft elevation and it performed amazingly well. We have a brake controller to help out on the descending, and of course downshift to use engine braking as well. -M

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My casita freedom deluxe 17 foot camper has a mach 8 cub 9200 btu ac unit and 2000 watt generator runs it fine coleman mach 8 cub 47201b876 rv rooftop air conditioner - 9,200 btu - white.

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The Casita Spirit Deluxe is a Dreamy Small Travel Trailer

If you’re considering a Casita Spirit Deluxe travel trailer , you, my friend, are on a great path. 

There’s nothing I don’t love about these amazing fiberglass campers! 

They have everything you need, you can pull them with almost any vehicle, they’re so cute, and they last forever. 

This article has everything you need to know about the Casita Spirit Deluxe 17’ travel trailer. Short on time? Click through the table of contents below to jump right to the section you want to read the most. 

All images sourced directly through Casita Travel Trailers.

Table of Contents

About Casita Travel Trailer Campers

Casita Travel Trailers are molded fiberglass campers that are beloved by RVers of many generations. These campers have an almost cult-like following because of their design and build quality. 

Casita campers are made out of two large pieces of marine-grade fiberglass: a top and a bottom. 

The molded pieces of fiberglass join in the middle of the camper, so there are no seams on the roof or sides other than the seam where it joins together. This construction makes Casita campers durable, high quality, and less prone to leaks than other types of RVs. This construction is also what makes them so insanely popular!

Casita has been around since the 1980s and the camper design really hasn’t changed much. This travel trailer company is a prime example of finding something that works well and sticking with it. 

Casita Spirit Deluxe Exterior

Who Owns Casita Travel Trailers?

Casita Travel Trailers is owned by Casita Enterprises, Inc. The company is family owned and operated.

 Timothy Lang, CEO of Casita Enterprises, told Business View Magazine: 

“Casita Enterprises was established in 1983 by my parents John and Connie Lang… When they started it, it was a much smaller operation… (with) less than 30 employees. They took every Casita model and they specifically designed it to make it as user-friendly and high quality as possible in order to give each and every customer the best experience that they could have.” 

Casita has been around for a few decades, and they really know what they’re doing. 

About the Casita Spirit Deluxe

A Casita Travel Trailer has been on my dream camper list for a couple years now, and if my fiancé and I had less pets, we’d be buying one in a heartbeat. 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe is the classic Casita experience!

This camper sleeps 3 people comfortably with a rear dinette that converts into a double bed and a single dinette on the side that can convert into a single bed. 

Side dinette folded down into a single bed

Many Casita Spirit Deluxe owners like to leave the rear dinette in bed position and use the single seating area to hang out and eat. 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe features a spacious wet bath with a toilet, sink, and shower. There is a kitchenette with a stove, sink, refrigerator, and cabinets for storage. 

The bathroom is complete with a toilet, sink, showerhead, and rooftop vent.

The Casita Spirit Deluxe wet bath

As you enter the camper, you’ll notice a spacious wardrobe closet to the right for storage, ample storage in the kitchen for food and dishes, and overhead cabinets along the entire interior for clothes and whatever else you may need. 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe has two propane tanks mounted on the front hitch and carries a spare tire on the rear. 

Casita Kitchen, Wardrobe Closet, and Bed Mode

You might be wondering: why is the Casita interior covered in carpet? The answer is multi-faceted! Carpeting on the walls and ceiling of the Casita helps to insulate the camper from heat, cold, and noise. It makes the interior feel cozy and homey, and it also eliminates condensation.

Related: Want to swap out the Casita toilet with a composting toilet? Learn why the Airhead Composting Toilet is a great option!

How Tall is a Casita Spirit Deluxe? 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe has an overall height of 8’, 11” . This height is perfect to stand up in and it will still clear most low bridges. The interior height is 6’2”. The overall width of the camper is 6’8”. 

Spirit Deluxe model driver's side

How Long is a Casita?

New Casita travel trailers are 17’ in overall length. You can find a used Casita camper in 13’, 16’ and 17’ versions, but the company no longer manufactures new 16’ or 13’ models. 

How Much Does the Casita Spirit Deluxe Weigh? 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe has a dry weight of 2,480 pounds. Dry weight refers to the weight of the camper with nothing added. That means no cargo, no water, no waste water, nothing. 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe will weigh between 3,000 and 3,500 pounds when fully loaded with cargo and water. 

How Much Does a Casita Spirit Deluxe Cost? 

The base price for the 2022 Casita Spirit 17’ Deluxe starts at $25,694. This is the price for the base option with standard features included. If you want optional add-ons, they come at an additional price. 

You can contact the Casita Travel Trailer company to get a free custom Casita price list and a quote for building your own customized trailer. There is a lead time for ordering a custom Casita. If you want to order a custom trailer, you should be prepared to wait anywhere from 6 months to a year or longer!

Standard Features of the Casita Spirit Deluxe

Standard features of every Casita travel trailer include marine-grade fiberglass shell construction, large screened windows, 50 cubic feet or storage space, and more. 

The Spirit Deluxe has a potable on-board and city water hookup with water heater, a private wet-bath, a rooftop vent, rooftop air conditioner, and beautiful furniture throughout. There are two different color scheme choices for new Casitas: grey and white or the classic brown and cream. 

Optional Add-On Features

The optional add-on features are where the Casita travel trailer can really shine! 

You can choose to add a furnace, microwave oven, a wall-mounted TV, roller shades, and seafoam-green cushions on the interior. 

On the exterior, you can choose an aluminum-cased awning, a travel trailer cover, two different types of solar panels, a high-lift axle, aluminum alloy wheels, an outside shower, and more. 

Other popular upgrades include an electric tongue jack (yes please!) and an Andersen weight distribution hitch. Check out the full list of add-ons here. 

Related: The Best RV Shows in the United States

Spirit Deluxe Floorplan

Image source: Casita Travel Trailers

What Comes with a Casita Spirit Deluxe? 

The Casita Spirit Deluxe comes with all standard Casita features. If you purchase your Casita from a dealership, they may include things like a basic sewer kit, a basic RV maintenance kit, or other new-RV related items. 

Typically, you can expect the standard Casita features like your roof-top AC, kitchenette, bathroom, comfortable and versatile dinette and bed cushions, and spare tire. 

Casita Camper Holding Tank Sizes

The standard fresh water tank size on a Casita camper is 16 gallons, but there are optional upgrades. 

Most newer Casita campers come with a 32 gallon gray tank and 15 gallon black tank. 

What Is The Difference Between Casita Standard and Casita Deluxe Travel Trailers?

The only difference between the Standard and Deluxe options is a major difference – it’s the bathroom! If you opt for a Standard Casita model, you lose out on the bathroom and the gray tank. In place of the bathroom is typically a bunk bed/couch. 

Also, on the Standard models, the rooftop AC is an add-on option. One Deluxe models, the bathroom and AC unit come standard. 

Why Are Casita Trailers So Popular? 

Casita travel trailers are so popular because of their superior construction. These RVs have a cult-like following for a reason! They are well built and last forever. There is ample storage, even for just a small space. 

Casita travel trailers aren’t as prone to leaks as other types of RVs. Since water damage is the main damaging factor of most older RV models on the market, Casitas really stand out.

Since they aren’t as prone to water damage and tend to last a long time, Casita travel trailers hold their value really well. 

Finally, these little travel trailers tow really nicely and are lightweight enough for most small trucks and SUVs. 

Casita Spirit Deluxe Interior in Day Mode

Are Casita Campers Any Good? 

Yes, Casita campers are awesome! There’s a reason they’re on my dream camper list. These campers are so cute and they’re built very well. 

For a small RV, Casita campers make excellent full-timing rigs, especially if you get the Deluxe model and upgrade your holding tanks. 

You can’t go wrong with a Casita camper. 

Related: looking for RV setup, travel day, and tear down checklists? Check out this RV checklist article : The Only RV Checklist Post You’ll Ever Need

Where to Find a Used Casita Spirit Deluxe For Sale

The Casita Spirit Deluxe is the most popular Casita model there is, so it can be difficult to find used models for sale. It seems like they’re snatched up almost as soon as they go on the market! 

For the best luck when looking for a used Casita camper for sale, you should look every day and through multiple outlets. 

The best places to look for a used Casita Spirit Deluxe is on RVTrader , RVT , and other online marketplaces. Be sure to check your local Facebook Marketplace Listings and Craigslist, too!

Related: Want to know how to find the best mobile RV repair service technician near you? Learn more here.

Spirit Deluxe Video Tour

If You’re Looking for a Small Camper, the Spirit Deluxe is A Dream!

Before I met my fiance, my heart was set on getting a custom Casita camper after the pandemic winds down. I wanted to pull it with my campervan and have two mobile living spaces! But, now that we’re together (and have 4 pets), we’re looking at much bigger RVs. 

A Casita camper isn’t just my dream, though, this brand literally has a cult following in the RV world. Tens of thousands of RVers can’t be wrong! If you want a small RV trailer that’s perfect for weekends or full-timing, can be towed by just about any vehicle, and will last you forever, a Casita is it. 

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Casita Trailer Pricing Guide: All Models Included

Are you thinking about buying a Casita trailer but not sure what they cost?

If so, you’re in the right place, because in this blog post we provide a complete cost breakdown of the entire Casita trailer lineup.

By providing the pricing for all five Casita models as well as what affects their pricing.

Plus, we also provide a brief review and walkthrough of each model.

So that you can better understand the differences between each model to know which one might be the best fit for you and your family.

How Much Does a Casita Trailer Cost?

Regardless of the model, all Casita trailers—including the Spirit, Independence, Heritage, Freedom, and Liberty—have the same starting price of either $30,996 or $32,694.

Which is impacted by the version of the trailer, as every Casita is available in either a standard or deluxe version.

Casita Spirit

Quick Specs

• Starting Price : $30,996 / $32,694
• Length : 17 Feet
• Dry Weight : 2,210 – 2,480 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 3 – 5 (Depending On Version)
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Wet Bath (Deluxe Version Only)

The Casita Spirit, which is often referred to as the classic Casita , offers one of the most well-rounded family-friendly floorplans that Casita makes.

As the Spirit offers two separate dinette booths, that can be converted into sleeping berths, providing convertible sleeping space for up the three people.

Casita Spirit Floorplans

This isn’t the only potential sleeping accommodation in the trailer though, because the Casita Spirit, like all Casita models, is available in both a standard and deluxe version.

And one of the biggest differences between these two versions is how the front of the trailer is laid out.

As the Spirit Deluxe offers a full three-piece wet bath with a small sink, shower, and toilet.

While the Spirit Standard offers front bunk beds, bringing the total sleeping capacity up to five.

Regardless of which version you choose though, the Casita Spirit makes a great choice for families looking for a small lightweight travel trailer that is both versatile as well as practical.

For more information on the Casita Spirit and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Casita’s website by clicking here .

Casita Independence

• Sleeping Capacity : 2 – 4 (Depending On Version)

Like the Casita Spirit from above, the Casita Independence is offered in both a standard and deluxe version.

Which dictates whether the trailer has front bunk beds and sleeping for four, or a front three-piece wet bath and sleeping for two.

A difference though between the Spirit and Independence is that the Independence offers two north-to-south permanent twin beds in the rear as opposed to a convertible dinette booth.

Casita Independence Floorplans

But that’s not the only layout difference between these two Casita models.

As the Independence model, due in large part to its north-to-south twin bed design, offers no dining or eating space inside the trailer.

Which might be a deal breaker for some, as it can make eating inside the trailer kind of awkward.

Also, with the Casita Independence lacking any sort of table you might find yourself relying on the beds to provide counter space when needed.

As there are very few flat surfaces in the Independence to set things on, due to the lack of a dinette table.

However, with all that being said, if you’re looking for twin beds or a bed that’s easier to get in and out of, the Casita Independence might be the right choice for you.

As the Independence is the only Casita model that offers a permanent twin-bed layout .

For more information on the Casita Independence and to see a 360-degree tour of the interior, check out Casita’s website by clicking here .

Casita Heritage

• Sleeping Capacity : 4 – 6 (Depending On Version)

At first glance, it might appear that the Casita Spirit from above and the Casita Heritage share the same floor plan.

However, upon closer inspection, there is one key difference between these two very similar models.

And that’s the difference in sleeping capacity between the Spirit and the Heritage.

As the Heritage is able to offer one additional sleeping space in both the standard and deluxe versions compared to the Spirit.

Casita Heritage Floorplans

Bringing the total sleeping capacity of the Casita Heritage to either four or six depending on whether you opt for the standard or deluxe version of the trailer.

Which is the highest sleeping capacity offered on a Casita travel trailer .

But just how does the Heritage model manage to squeak out another sleeping spot in a trailer that has the exact same dimensions and general layout as the Spirit?

The answer is that Casita Heritage offers bunk beds in place of the side dinette booth found on the Spirit.

This means that not only does the Casita Heritage have two sets of bunk beds in the standard version but also that the trailer is able to offer a four-person sleeping capacity even if you opt for the deluxe version, which deletes the front bunk beds for a wet bath.

Because of this, the Casita Heritage makes a great choice for a family of four that needs a four-person sleeping capacity but doesn’t want to give up the convenience of having a built-in bathroom .

For more info on the Casita Heritage and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Casita’s website by clicking here .

Casita Freedom

While the Casita Freedom does offer a four-person sleeping capacity in the standard version, the deluxe version of the Freedom is where this model really shines.

As the Casita Freedom Deluxe makes the ultimate small lightweight couples trailer , thanks to the trailer’s rear dinette booth/double bed, full-featured mid-galley, two caption swivel chairs, and front full three-piece wet bath.

Casita Freedom Floorplans

Making the Freedom Deluxe perfect for couples who like to travel with all the comforts of home.

Plus, because the two captain swivel chairs have a built-in table between them, it allows the seating area to be used as a makeshift dinette booth.

Allowing you to leave the rear dinette booth/double bed as a permanent bed, which is far more convenient while camping and traveling.

For more information on the Casita Freedom Deluxe and to see a 360-degree view of the interior, check out Casita’s website by clicking here .

Casita Liberty

The Casita Liberty offers the same front layout as every other Casita model with either bunk beds in the standard version or a wet bath in the deluxe version.

Where this model really stands out though is in its rear layout.

As the Liberty offers one of the most flexible and convertible rear layouts out of all the Casita models .

Allowing the space to be used as a four-person dinette booth/double bed with extra seating or as one large king-size bed that measures 82 inches long by 76 inches wide.

Casita Liberty Floorplans

Regardless of its configuration though, the Liberty, like all Casita models, offers a well-equipped kitchenette, a good amount of storage, and lots of creature comforts.

For more information on the Casita Liberty and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Casita’s website by clicking here .

What Affects the Cost of a Casita Travel Trailer?

As mentioned above, one of the biggest factors that can impact the cost of a Casita trailer is its version .

As the deluxe version of the trailer regardless of which model you choose has a starting price that’s $1,698 more compared to the standard version.

For that extra $1,698 though, you get a three-piece wet bath with a combined shower, toilet, and bathroom vanity as well as a standard air conditioner.

However, the version of the camper isn’t the only thing that can impact the price of a Casita trailer.

Because, while all Casitas come well-equipped with numerous standard features, including marine-grade two-piece fiberglass construction, versatile sleeping accommodations, and a full-functioning galley, there are also many optional features that can add additional cost to the trailer .

So to give you a better idea of the true cost of a Casita trailer, we’ve compiled the below list that highlights all the different upgrades available for the Casita trailer and its corresponding price.

Optional Exterior Upgrades (2023 Pricing)

• Aluminum Cased Patio Awning – $879
• 180W Solar Panel – $729
• 230W Solar Panel – $899
• 15-Inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels – $269
• High Lift Suspension Package – $199
• Outside Shower/Wash Station – $149
• Maintenance Free AGM Deep Cycle Battery – $279
• Electric Tongue Jack – $189
• Friction Anti-Sway Control – $89
• Anderson “No Sway” Distribution Hitch – $489
• Casita Trailer Cover – $299
• Leveling Block Set – $49
• Water Filter – $25
• Surge Protector – $97

Optional Interior Upgrades (2023 Pricing)

• Roof Mounted Air Conditioner – $879 (Standard on Deluxe)
• Furnace – $499
• Microwave Oven – $239
• Video Entertainment Package – $499
• Roller Window Shades – $299
• Folding Kitchen Shelf – $89
• Casita Kit – $99

(For the most current upgrade pricing be sure to contact Casita Travel Trailers directly at 1-800-442-9986.)

How Much Does a Used Casita Trailer Cost?

If you’re looking to save some money when buying a Casita trailer, one of the best ways to do this is to buy a used one.

As you can often save $10,000 or more when buying a used Casita compared to a new one.

As you can see below from actual listings of used Casita trailers for sale on rvtrader.com at the time of this writing.

Used Casta Trailer Listings (Least to Most Expensive)

• 1998 Casita Spirit Deluxe 16 – $15,000
• 2007 Casita Spirit Deluxe 17 – $16,995
• 2000 Casita Freedom Deluxe 17 – $19,995
• 2020 Casita Heritage Deluxe 17 – $23,000
• 2012 Casita Spirit Deluxe 16 – $23,500

To see current listings of used Casita trailers on rvtrader.com click here.

How Does the Casita Trailer Price Compare to Other Molded Fiberglass Campers?

The cost of a Casita trailer like all molded fiberglass campers can vary depending on its model, version, and options.

In general, though, the cost of a Casita trailer tends to be towards the middle when it comes to pricing for a molded fiberglass camper, costing more than a Scamp trailer but less than an Oliver trailer, as you can see below.

Are Casita Trailers Worth it?

Whether or not Casita trailers are worth it depends on your individual needs and circumstances.

As Casita trailers use an all-fiberglass non-stick frame construction, which makes the trailers much lighter compared to more traditional stick-frame RVs .

Because of this, they tend to be a popular choice for people who enjoy traveling and camping in small, lightweight trailers or who have a more limited tow vehicle, such as a small SUV or a 4-cylinder .

In addition, Casita trailers are often praised for their durability, longevity, high-quality construction, and easy towing .

However, they may not be the best choice for everyone.

As one potential drawback of the Casita is that they tend to be more expensive compared to other types of trailers .

Because of this, you need to weigh the added cost against the benefits that a Casita trailer provides.

Additionally, when it comes to travel trailers, Casitas tend to be on the smaller side, as they’re only 17 feet in length and just under 7 feet wide.

Because of this, they don’t have as much interior or storage space as larger trailers .

So it’s also important to figure out how much interior and storage space you need in a travel trailer.

If you’re looking for a small lightweight easy to tow camper though, that a variety of vehicles can tow, then the Casita trailer should definitely be on your shortlist .

How to Buy a Casita Trailer

Like other molded fiberglass campers, the buying process for a Casita trailer is a little different compared to the more traditional RV buying process.

Because while large RV manufacturers like Forest River, Thor, Coachmen, and Airstream sell their RVs through dealer networks, much like the auto industry, Casita uses a direct-to-consumer approach, by selling their trailers directly to the customer without a dealership middleman .

Which has both advantages and disadvantages.

Because while you don’t have to deal with pushy or unknowledgeable RV salespeople using this approach, it can also make viewing the trailer more challenging and the buying process more cumbersome.

To illustrate this point let’s take a look at the typical buying process for a new Casita trailer.

Step-By-Step Buying Process

• Step 1 : Perform initial research on the Casita trailer by learning about the different models, pricing, specs, and available features on their website at www.casitatraveltrailers.com .
• Step 2 : View a Casita trailer in person by either visiting their showroom at 5029 SE McKinney in Rice, Texas, or by using the Casita Discovery Progam, which connects you with local Casita owners in your area that are willing to answer questions and show you their personal Casita trailer.
• Step 3 : Order the trailer by calling Casita at 1-800-442-9986 to speak with one of their sales reps that will walk you through the ordering and financing process if needed.
• Step 4 : Recieve a pick-up time and date when the Casita will be ready for pickup.
• Step 5 : On the delivery date return to the dealership in Rice Texas to pick up the trailer, which includes a full tour of the trailer, final paperwork completion, and payment via cashier’s check or wire. (Wire must be completed three days prior to pick up.)
• Step 6 : Stay at a campground close to the dealership and camp for a day or two in the trailer to make sure there are no issues before traveling home with the camper. (Not required but a good idea.)

Final Thoughts

The cost of a Casita trailer can vary greatly depending on the version, features, age, and condition of the camper.

As basic used Casita trailers cost as little as $15,000, while loaded new models can cost upwards of $40,000 or more.

So it’s important to consider your budget and needs when shopping for a Casita trailer.

Because whether you’re looking for a simple and economical option or a fully loaded and luxurious model, there is a Casita trailer out there to fit your needs and budget.

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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