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15 Best Pop Up Camper Hacks and Ideas [With Pictures]

Camping is an enjoyable and bonding experience. What makes a camping trip even better? Bringing your kids along and introducing them to the animals and camping traditions. However, we’ve compiled 15 pop-up camper hacks that will make any trip a success for you and the whole family. Among them you’ll find tips for organizing your space, staying safe at the campsite, etc.

You will get five main benefits from reading this pop-up camping guide:

• This article will throw light on all the necessities you need while camping trip.
• A proper guideline to paying attention to hygiene.
• Food is a must for survival and especially when you have struggled loads to make your adventure fruitful.
• You need to secure your valuables and focus on their privacy and safety.
• The below-discussed hacks will also educate you on organizing things like extra beds, batteries, etc.

Table of Contents

15 Pop-Up Camper Hacks You Didn’t Know You Needed

Here are 15 of the most useful pop-up camper hacks you didn’t know you needed to know!

1. Prep your battery before a camping trip

A car battery will die if you don’t use it now and then, even if you’re not living in your camper. To keep your battery healthy while camping:

• Disconnect the battery from the negative terminal on the car.
• Leave it disconnected overnight.
• Put a new, fully charged battery in its place for the night.
• Remove that one and replace it with your own (fully charged) battery for when you’re camping!
• After using your battery while camping, switch them again to give the other one a break.

When you’re ready to go home, follow these steps in reverse:

• Reconnect the old battery to its negative terminal.
• Put your good battery back in the car, ready for next time.
• Repeat this procedure about once per month for the best results. In addition, top off the water levels in your holding tanks before leaving.
• With all of these tips, you’ll be able to take full advantage of your 10+ hour power supply!

2. Arrange all your camp items by height

If you’re like me, you can never have enough camp items. Between cooking equipment and backpacks, it is nice to have them all within arm’s reach while I’m lying on my tent cot looking up at the clear blue sky.

The only problem is finding a place to store them when not in use – especially if they are different shapes or sizes! So, this tip is for those of us that want to be able to quickly grab our lantern from under our bed without having to climb into bed first. Arrange your lanterns, water bottles, and other gear by height so that the tallest ones will be at one end of your cot and the shortest ones will be at the other. Next time you need something, it will be a quick grab without having to get out of bed!

3. Storage items in water bottles

We all know the feeling of needing a few essentials on hand but not enough space in the car or at camp. That’s why water bottles can be one of your best friends in the trip. Use them to store lighter items, like snacks and food, when you don’t need a cooler. The vessel provides insulation, so they’re perfect for smaller items that may spoil quickly – great if you want to put them in the fridge or freezer too! Plus, it’s easy to track what’s inside with an instantly recognizable shape.

If you have some more critical things to carry with you, try putting a pack towel around it and tying it off tight. This will make the item easier to carry and protect you from bumps. Make sure to wipe down the outside of anything you transport before packing it up to get rid of any dirt or mud. A few towels rolled up tightly work wonders for throwing dirty clothes into after a long day instead of having them spill over the back seat.

4. Use the rope to hang items

The rope is one of the most versatile tools as a popup camper. From tying stuff down to making shelves, it’s always handy. These pop-up campers can also be used as an alternative for drawer pulls or towel racks when you’re out of space.

Just cut some pieces about three inches long and tie them together. Tie them around anything that needs to be hung, and voila! A new way to store your clothes and towels. Roll up everything, grab two pieces of rope and tie them on either side of the top piece.

Slip this over the hooks on either side at eye level to create a shelf for your clothes. If you don’t have any rope, use old t-shirts as a substitute. Fill the pockets with dirty laundry on one hook while hanging other clothes on another.

5. Portable shower hacks for pop-up campers

You won’t need to use a bucket and the hose with your own pop-up campers to create a makeshift shower. All you’ll need is water, an empty plastic 2-liter bottle, and shower curtain rods. Cut off the bottom of the water bottle about three inches up from the bottom with a box cutter or razor blade, and place it on your bed next to you in the morning. Fill it up with warm water when needed throughout the day, and keep it at arm’s length while using it. Use bathroom towels to wipe out extra water. Do the process behind shower curtain rods.

To rinse the shampoo out of your hair, fill the empty bottle with warm water. Put it over your head (like a shower cap), so you can quickly rinse out soap suds without getting soap in your eyes. To wash dishes without running out of hot water, use cold instead. Please bring plenty of dish soap for greasy pots and pans because hot water will only worsen them.

6. Keep valuables safe from critters

There are many creative ways to keep your goods safe from critters during your camping trip . If you have any of these lying around at home, put them in the pop-up camper to help prevent unwelcome visitors. Pop-up camping will be beneficial. Another idea is to seal up all holes in the camper with expanding foam insulation. It will seal gaps and create an airtight space – perfect for keeping out pesky creatures.

The campsites recommend bringing a motion-sensitive light inside the pop-up camper to ward off bugs. These lights can be triggered by movement or continuously throughout the night.

7. Organize

I’ll admit it. When I first purchased my pop-up camper for a trip, I was overwhelmed by the gear I had to lug around. If you find yourself in this same boat, try organizing your gear into groups and packing each type of gear in its bag. Plus, if you can get creative, these bags are perfect for keeping out critters on an extended camping trip. Pop-up are the must-have on the list.

8. Ventilation

Ventilation is key to reducing the odors of cooking inside. It allows for the buildup of moisture and condensation from cooking, showering, or even sitting inside for too long. The easiest solution is to buy an air conditioner that fits nicely in your window by attaching it outside or vertically to your window frame. In our pop-up camper, we have opted for the second option. You can also purchase vent covers for those who don’t want to change their vehicle permanently. They attach to your windows with suction cups and are easy enough to remove when you need them off.

Another idea would be to install fans in different areas of the camper or camper roof. You can install one near the kitchenette area and one near your sleep. So they can help keep things circulating. An oldie but goodie hack is to place bowls of ice around the interior space, which helps draw heat out and cools down the entire camper in a matter of minutes. A space heater is also preferred in tent camping for a fantastic camper. They see the space heaters as an amazing pop.

9. The Extra Beds

Sleeping quarters can be scarce in a pop-up camper. Give yourself and your guest an extra sleeping option by adding a bed above the cab on the passenger side. The best way to do this is with a cot from Walmart or Academy. Have an extended warranty on the top bunk to save time and headache later if something happens. The most cost-effective materials for building this type of setup are wood, including 2x4s, 1x4s, and plywood. A Sawzall is needed to cut through the truck’s metal frame, and a drill will come in handy too.

Measure carefully so that you end up with two pieces 8 feet long and 10 inches wide. Use these measurements as guides when cutting out the wood. If your boards are slightly different lengths, then don’t worry. They’ll fit together perfectly! To ensure they stay in place, attach them using 3-inch screws and a screwdriver.

10. Gas & Electrical

Your pop-up camper has some pop-ups like a battery to power the refrigerator, lights, and other amenities while tripping . But there are steps you should take before heading out on your trip to make sure it has enough juice:

• Start by shutting off all your appliances when you’re not using them – think of that as something else to pack in your bags!
• Then, check your owner’s manual for information about how often you need to charge the battery during long trips.
• If you’re going to be away from home for more than one night, charge the battery daily or two. You can do this while at home or use an outside electrical outlet if you’re staying somewhere without a generator.
• When camping in colder weather, plug an extension cord into an outside outlet and run it into your camper through a window.
• Plug lamps into outlets along the cord, providing plenty of light inside the camper. Another option is to invest in a gas generator (or two) to let you power your fridge, lights, and anything else running on electricity outdoors.

11. Cleaning and Storage

After cooking:

• Unpack your dishware and utensils where they are out of the way. Outdoor cooking in a tent trailer even by an already fantastic camper is not that easy. Follow-up comments of already fantastic camper in a matter of outdoor cooking.
• Wash each item and then store them away from the kitchen area, like on top of the fridge or near your bathroom, so you don’t forget them when packing.
• Use a hanger to dry towels. You can’t skip kitchen and bathroom towels. The kitchen and bathroom towels are essential for trip.
• Clean up spills right away.
• Use binder clips to keep spices organized in their packets (they’re more stable than putting them in jars).
• Don’t let bugs live with you for more than a few hours by setting traps with vinegar or cayenne pepper and baking soda.
• Turn a two-person tent into a four-person one by just zipping the two tents together. Sleep outside with your feet propped up using long sticks. Keep warm at night using extra clothes as an insulator under your sleeping bag. Fill every unused space in your camper with airbags to help protect it from rough roads or sharp turns during travel.

12. A/C System Mods

In camping, you find yourself in a hot environment that doesn’t have many fans or AC available, you can use your vehicle’s A/C system to cool things down. While your car isn’t running, grab an electric wire and detach one of the battery terminals. Take some insulation (like a paper towel) and put it around the exposed metal wires of the battery. Then take a wrench and twist the two ends together. That should do it! The next time you turn on your car, this will recharge the battery and power up both A/C systems.

A second way to make your camper cooler without such furniture is by installing an evaporative cooler pad with a thermostat near your truck’s dashboard. Once you’re done camping, soak it with water from a hose and let it dry out for another trip! A third option is setting up solar panels that would lower the temperature in your camper. With these three hacks combined, you should be able to beat any heatwave without much trouble at all!

13. Water Systems For Camping

You’ll have to have some water system inside your pop-up camper. You need some hanging bags as well. If you’re near a water source, such as a lake or river, the easiest and cheapest way is to go out and buy some camper jugs of water, or hanging bags can be helpful too. But if you are far from any outside resources, you may need to bring your portable water tank with a pump.

They also use less energy than regular pumps because they can be powered by a 12-volt battery (the same one used to power your lights). Many other handy water hacks would make sense, depending on what you plan on doing while camping .

14. Security & Privacy

One of the best things you can do when camping in a pop-up camper is to secure your camper. After all, once it’s set up, you don’t want someone coming by in the middle of the night and making off your valuables while you’re sleeping. One way to ensure your camper is as safe as possible during your stay at the campsite is to park it close to other campers. Another good idea is to ensure no trees or shrubs near the front of the camper.

Otherwise, if somebody comes around late at night and tries to break in, they might be able to see right inside. If this doesn’t bother you, placing some motion detector lights near them might work.

15. Cooking & Stovetop

One of the most important considerations when purchasing a pop-up camper for your trip is which type of cooking stove will be best for you and your family. With the variety of options available, it can be hard to decide which one to get. This decision often boils down to the best type for your camping needs. But don’t make this decision without considering how you’ll use your new camper too! Depending on where you live, a simple grill may not be an option, so this might determine your cooking equipment.

Will you mostly cook breakfast or eat cold cereal? Will you spend most of your time in places with power? If so, then a camp stove is probably the way to go. The goal with these appliances is to make cooking easy and quick because time spent cooking adds time to clean-up. An RV fridge also helps save fuel by eliminating the need for ice packs in coolers.

Pop Up Camper and Tent Trailer Hacks [Gallery]

How can I improve my pop-up camper?

You can quickly improve your popup camper and better your camping trip by following the advice in this article.

Most of them are really affordable, if not free, and don’t take a lot of time to implement.

What are the pros and cons of a pop-up travel trailer?

• Small and lightweight
• Easy to tow
• You can store them in your garage
• Usually, there’s no bathroom
• Limited sleeping capacity

Going on a camping trip can be an advantageous experience, and taking your pop-up camper can make the experience even better. However, living out of a camper means dealing with it in every weather condition. So, having simple pop-up camper hacks on hand can make a living more accessible and convenient. These hacks will extend your camper’s life and usefulness and make it easier to use and prepare food while on the go!

Thanks for reading these fifteen pop-up camper hacks for a camping trip. I hope these hacks will prove very beneficial to you. Please state the hack in the comments, which you had enjoy the most and that you use yourself.

I`m a current Law Enforcement Officer working within the Counterterrorism Bureau in New York State. I have been Camping for over 20 years. My styles of camping include tent, car, truck, van, and RV travel trailer. I have a YouTube channel where I teach all types of camping with an entertaining method: https://youtube.com/@TheSmallsRVAdventures

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8 Best Pop Up Camper Trailers

Pop up campers, pop up trailers, pop up camping trailers, whatever you want to call them, they are simply awesome.  So small, they allow you to park and/or camp anywhere.  We are always amazed at the ingenuity of the pop-up camper manufacturers that pack so much good camping gear into such a small place.  These are the 8 best pop up camper trailers  on the market today.  

Click on the Quick Links below to jump right the pop-up camper trailer you’ve heard about or scroll down to see the best that the industry has to offer!

Quick Links

Sylvan Sport GO

Air OPUS OP4

• Forest River Rockwood ESP

Turtleback Trailers Expedition T3

Coachman Viking LS

Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast

Coachmen Clipper 12.0 TD XL

Black Series Dominator

Product Reviews

Best RV and Hiking Gear for 2021

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This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy  here .

1. Sylvan Sport GO

This little guy is amazing!  You can store things (like motorcycles, bikes, camping gear, or whatever you can come up with, below the tent pod. You can even put stuff like kayaks, bicycles, and more on the equipment rack above the tent pod.  It’s a really cool design.  This is the hybrid of all the pop-up tent trailers.  The company Sylvan Sport also sells all sorts of camping equipment and an even larger camper.  You should check them out!

Quick Features

Length:  80″ Long by 116″ Wide

Dry Weight:  840 Pounds

Sleeps: 2 Adults – 2 Children

Slideouts: None, however, the roof pops up for more headspace and ventilation.

Click here to schedule an online demo! 

Light enough for almost any size vehicle to tow, this pop up / travel trailer is perfect for almost anyone that loves the outdoors.  The only drawback we could find is there is no internal toilet, so you could always opt for a nice composting toilet .

2. Air OPUS OP4

Those Australians did it again!  They packed so much into this off-road pop-up camper trailer that you may never have to go home again.  It’s almost indescribable how cool this pop-up camper trailer is.  With the flip of a button, the entire pop up literally pops up with the convenience of triple-reinforced air bladders.   Not only that, you can order with a toilet, a slide-out kitchen, and so much more.  It’s a little pricey, but well worth it if you want to take your pop-up camper trailer off-road and get away from it all. 

Length: 5600 (L) x 2155mm (W) x 1635mm (H) (inc rack and spare)

Dry Weight:  1,370 kg (depending on what model you choose – 2 models to choose from)

Sleeps: Can sleep up to 10 people with inflated annex

Slideouts: No slideouts but it has two fold-outs and if you choose the air annex, you have an amazing amount of room.  Check out the video!! 

Click here to see the full specs!

Built for extreme off-road travel, this pop-up camper trailer has everything you will need and more.  With fixed double-beds, a seating area, a movable table, storage, portable toilet, fridge slide, and even a slide-out kitchen.  You have to order from Australia, so get on it.  

3. Forest River Rockwood ESP (Extreme Sports Package)

Forest River Rockwood ESP (Extreme Sports Package)  

This pop-up camping trailer is built for adventurous couples and families.  With 10 models to choose from, we are sure you can find the right pop up camper trailer for you.  These travel trailers also come in the soft wall or hard wall configurations. 

Length:  12’1″ to 30’8″ (depending on model selected)

Dry Weight:  1,722 lbs to 3,377 lbs (depending on model selected)

Sleeps: 2 to 4 Adults (depending on the model selected)

Slideouts: 1 Slideout (depending on the model selected)

BUILT FOR 21ST CENTURY CAMPING. The ESP package has interior features targeted for the modern, active lifestyle including a Digital Media Receiver with Bluetooth, MP3 player, USB and auxiliary ports, WiFi Ranger WiFi Booster, recharging station with (2) additional USB ports, LED interior lighting and more.

4. Turtleback Trailers Expedition T3

Another Australian innovation.  If you are into off-road trailers and have a fair amount of money, this pop-up camper trailer is for you!  Turtleback Trailers have a more affordable line, the Getaway Series at around $17,000 but since this is a review, we wanted to show you the absolute best the Turtleback Trailers have to offer.  

Length:  67” H x 74.25” W x 130” L  (depending on model selected)

Dry Weight:  1,850 lbs (depending on model selected)

Slideouts: No slideouts

Since this website is dedicated to adventure travel, we love this little pop-up camper trailer.  It is truly built to go off-road.  With Steel Frame construction, 3500lb Rubber Torsion Axles, Electric Brakes, Alloy Wheels & Off-Road Tires, 4 Rail Steel Roof Rack, 42 Gal Food Grade Water Tank, 12V On-Demand Water Pump, DSI 6 Gal High-Efficiency Water Heater, External Shower Storage, with a CNC Laser Cut & Bent Aluminum l 48” x 32” Nose Box, 45” Side Boxes (2), 55+ Cubic Feet Of Storage, Durable Baltic Birch Wood Cabinetry, Solid Maple Countertop, 2 Slide Out Kitchen Pantry Drawers, Huge Pot & Pan Box, Customizable Drawer Dividers, 2 Burner Partner Steel Stove & Cover, Deep Dometic Stainless Steel Sink, Hot & Cold Faucet, Brushed S/Steel Fold Down Tables (2) and 11lb Propane Tank.  It also comes with an optional Roof Top Tent, Awning, Fridge, and Rotopax.  

5. Coachman Viking LS

The Viking line of pop-up camper trailers has more than 16 different options.  We had to pick one, so here is the Coachman Viking LS.  This small little pop-up camper trailer is packed with goodies.  Great for a family for a week of camping or so compact and easy to setup, even a quick weekend camping getaway.  

Length:  16′ 10″‘ including tongue

Dry Weight:  1,080 lbs

Sleeps: 4 Adults

Slideouts: 2 slideouts that make into beds

These little pop-up camper trailer even come with an electric brakes, LED exterior lights, pre-braced for A/C, fresh water tank, 12 amp convertor, awning, 2 burner stove, 20,000 BTU furnace,3-Way Dometic Refrigerator 1.9 Cu. Ft. with screens and a lot more.  Check them out!

6. Forest River Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast

It seems like Forest Rivers is THE RV manufacturer with the most options available.  This pop-up camper trailer is just another option you can find from Forest River.  The model here (  28TSCSE  : Sports Enthusiast Package (SE) comes with an actual shower, toilet, fridge, sink, dinette, and two large beds.  

Length: 26′ 5″

Dry Weight:  1,844 lbs

Slideouts: 1 slideout, with two folding pop-outs.

Click here to see the full specs! 

The Flagstaff Sport Enthusiast Package comes with a variety of standard features including: AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth technology, a MP3 Player and USB auxiliary ports for streaming and recharging, LED lighting and a WiFi Ranger WiFi booster, Distinctive fender flairs and 15” Mud Rover Radial Tires with Aluminum Wheels provides 12” of ground clearance to go anywhere. Each SE is solar power ready, making it easy to get off the grid!  You really have to check these out.  They don’t have a video out for the SE package but check out the video below for the less extreme Flagstaff MAC.

7. Coachmen Clipper 12.0 TD XL

This is a hybrid between a standard small RV trailer and a pop-up camper trailer.  The Coachmen Clipper series of trailers have 16 options!  Choose from a standard pop-up trailer or the hybrid models.  Standard features include a lot of comfort features including a 5,000 BTU air conditioner and a 20,000 BTU furnace plus, unlike traditional teardrop models, you can stand upright and walk around in the living space. These models are lightweight, and easy to tow by most cars, crossovers, and small SUVs.

Length: Just over 16’9″

Dry Weight:  1,786 lbs

Sleeps: 3 Adults

Clipper tent-style, pop-up hybrids feel much bigger inside, with a rear entry for easy access. Unlatch, and the struts automatically lift the roof into position. Durable, lami-plast exterior walls and roof skin maintain structural integrity and can withstand the test of time.

8. Black Series Dominator

In case you can’t tell, I love Australians and their ingenuity.  The Dominator provides a spacious interior with a queen size sleeping area and seating for the whole family. The seating area also conveniently converts into a comfortable sleeping surface to provide a restful nights sleep for the whole family. Included LED lighting throughout allows the celebration to continue inside after the sun goes down. Plenty of mesh windows allow fresh air to flow throughout the tent, reassuring you of the beauty and purity of camping and overlanding.

Length: 17.38′

Dry Weight:  2,740 lbs

Sleeps: 2+ Adults

Slideouts: None

The Dominator provides a spacious interior with a queen size sleeping area and seating for the whole family. The seating area also conveniently converts into a comfortable sleeping surface to provide a restful night’s sleep for the whole family. Included LED lighting throughout allows the celebration to continue inside after the sun goes down. Plenty of mesh windows allow fresh air to flow throughout the tent, reassuring you of the beauty and purity of camping and overlanding.

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Pop-up campers: Everything you need to know

Everyone should get outdoors and disconnect, but roughing it isn't for everyone. That's why you should try pop-up camping.

The world of recreational vehicles is an expansive one that caters to many different types of adventurers, from those who prefer the comfort of home while spending a weekend in the woods , to those who want to spend their life on the road.

As such, RVs come in a handful of different styles. The term "recreational vehicle" covered everything from your multimillion dollar Class A mansions on wheels all the way down to converted Sprinter vans conversions from all the #vanlife  accounts you follow in Instagram and everything in-between.

Of all the RVs available, some of the most affordable are travel trailers and pop-up campers. If you're in the market for the latter, there are some things you should know first.

These luxury RVs are like five-star hotels on wheels

What is a pop-up camper anyway?

Pop-up campers, also known as fold-out campers or tent trailers, are camping trailers that collapse down into a much smaller, portable package, thanks to a partial canvas construction. Like a fifth wheel or travel trailer, pop-up campers often have a mess area, large mattresses and sometimes a functioning bathroom.

Rather than hauling around a massive, heavy trailer, however, a pop-up camper folds up into a nice, small package that's easier to tow and maneuver than a full-sized trailer.

Pop-up campers are some of the lightest RV options available and can be towed behind much smaller vehicles.

6 things to consider before buying

Like with any RV, alongside some benefits, there will be sacrifices and compromises you will have to make. It's up to you to decide which compromises are acceptable or if the benefits outweigh the sacrifices.

Lighter and easier to pull than travel trailers and 5th wheels

With less material and partially fabric walls, pop-up campers are generally much lighter than your standard travel trailer, from as little as 800 pounds and sometimes in excess of 2,000 pounds. Compared to a dry weight of around 5,000 pounds for your average travel trailer, that's a significant difference in weight.

The benefits of these weight savings are two-fold. For one, your gas mileage isn't going to take nearly as much of a hit. The less weight you have to pull (and the smaller physical size of the trailer) means better fuel economy. It also means your midsize truck or SUV might be capable of hauling the pop-up camper with ease, whereas with a travel trailer, you might need to upgrade to a full-sized truck with a considerable tow rating.

Space will be tight

While some pop-ups are considerable in size, in general, they reside on the smaller side of the RV spectrum -- and not just when they're collapsed. Even when fully deployed, the available space inside is more compact. There's less headroom in the sleeping areas. The kitchenette is smaller. And storage space is rather constrained.

Some people see the constrained size as a benefit of sorts. The smaller indoor space will likely encourage you to spend more time outdoors, which is usually the point anyway. It will feel more like camping than some other types of RV living, which a lot of people consider glamping instead.

Still, if you're looking for reduced weight, this is one of the compromises you might have to come to grips with.

Usually no AC or heat

Being partially constructed of a non-insulated canvas, your efforts to heat or cool a pop-up camper will be mostly futile. Unlike travel trailers or other RVs, pop-up campers don't usually come with heating or air conditioning (thanks to their lack of insulation and extra space). You're at the mercy of nature.

You can bring along a space heater for cooler months and a fan or portable AC unit for the summer. But don't expect the camper to trap the hot or cold air.

Weather matters

On the issue of insulation, other RV styles do a better job at shielding you from inclement weather. While a pop-up camper can still keep you dry, your time camping in a pop-up might not be as enjoyable as with other types of RVs. This is not only thanks to space constraints, but also because of the canvas walls.

Despite doing a decent job of keeping the rain out, condensation will play a much larger factor in a pop-up than in other RVs. So while rainwater may not get in, the inside of the camper may still feel rather damp. This regular dampness can lead to other problems like mold and rot. To combat this, you'll have to get used to airing things out fairly often.

Some do have showers and toilets

Believe it or not and space constraints aside, some pop-up campers have bathrooms inside, including a shower. The toilet is sometimes a cassette toilet -- or a toilet that's in plain view and in the main living area but hidden under a bedside table.

Yeah, it's kind of weird. But when you're boondocking, you'll be thankful for that bedside toilet over having to dig a cat hole in the woods.

Save big… or not

One of the biggest factors keeping people from joining in on the RV fun is the money aspect. RVs can be very expensive. But they don't have to be, and pop-up campers are some of the most affordable options on the market.

Sure, you can easily drop $20,000 or more on a pop-up camper. But you can also find used pop-up campers for as little as $1,000 just as easily -- in decent condition, too. If you go the used route, however, be wary for restorations, as they can get costly. Do your research and find the pop-up that's right for you, your needs and your budget, renovations included.

Try renting one first

In short, pop-up campers are a fantastic and affordable way to get into RVing. It's a common way to test the waters without accruing tons of unwanted and unneeded debt. But if you want to take things one step further to see if a pop-up camper is right for you, consider renting one for an extended trip. You can spend anywhere between $50 and $100 per night to see if the investment will be worth it… or if a travel trailer or full-on Class C is a better fit.

Consider the alternatives

Rooftop tents can be installed on most vehicles with a roof rack or smaller, custom trailers.

Maybe you love it. Or maybe you come to the conclusion that it's all just too much hassle for less reward than you expected -- that you just want to get outdoors without all the fuss.

In that case, there are several alternatives.

• Rooftop tents are becoming a very popular and much more affordable way to get outdoors on a whim. They attach directly to the roof of your vehicle and can sleep up to six people. It's more like actual camping and can be just as much fun for the family.
• Airbnb rentals for airstreams and tiny houses are also widely available. They're sometimes costly (and in high demand) but can allow you to test the waters repeatedly without biting the bullet yourself. Put someone else's under-used trailer or camper to use before spending so much cash yourself.
• Truck bed tents are one of my personal favorite ways to get outdoors. You get to sleep up off the ground (which is a much more appealing way to sleep when camping) and sleep inside the bed of your truck . The only problem is that this isn't suitable for families. Someone will end up sleeping in a ground tent.

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The Complete Guide to Pop-Up Trailer Campers

You’ll never have to worry about sleeping on the floor again while indulging in the great outdoors.

By Chris Chin

It may be hard to believe right now, but fall is just around the corner — which means, with the scorching ambient temperatures and the soupy humidity of summer begin to subside, we’re about to be in the ideal temperatures for camping season.

While there are a variety of ways to accommodate sleeping arrangements once the fire burns out, the smores supply wanes, and the time to turn in for the night approaches — rooftop tents , regular tents , camping trailers , camper vans , et cetera — in this case, we’re talking about pop-up tent trailer campers .

Which, of course, may beg the question:

What Exactly Is a Pop-Up Tent Trailer?

When it comes to camping, you can always go the bougie glamping route with a decked-out motorhome, a camper bus , or even a fancy-schmancy Airstream ; yet these are big, cumbersome and pricey compared with the freedom and flexibility of other forms of camping. On the opposite side of the spectrum, one can go back to basics with a simple tent. Even with padding, though, trying to sleep on rough terrain however can be a major turnoff for many. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternative happy mediums in between — one of which is the pop-up tent trailer camper.

Think of it as a basic camping tent—or even, in some cases, a mobile compartmentalized gazebo—mounted permanently atop a small trailer chassis and equipped with onboard amenities. More than that, though, it’s all efficiently bundled together with sleeping arrangements that your back might appreciate — in a package almost any car can tow.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Trailer Tent

Pop-up trailer tents often come equipped with items similar those of a much larger camper, but in pint-sized portions. For example, depending on the model, you might find a small cooking station, hardtop and dinette seating surfaces, extra storage spaces, a kitchenette sink, even air conditioning. The standard features list tends to include integrated electronics and plumbing, flexible connectivity options for water, propane, and power hook-ups, and more.

But at the same time, trailer tents are not as cumbersome or expensive as full-sized trailers, which need heavy-duty pickups or beefy SUVs and lots of space to haul. Most pop-up tent trailers weigh less than 3,000 pounds meaning they can be hitched up to most mid-to-full-size vehicles, like your average crossover SUV . Additionally, many pop-up trailer tents collapse into it their chassis for mobility purposes; yet when set up at one’s favorite camping site, they’re screened off to keep nature out.

There are a few disadvantages, though — particularly if you’re a stickler for square footage, or if you have large groups of people with you, as tent trailers are meant to be a compact and efficient way to camp. And you do need a vehicle with some sort of tow hitch to be able to drive off with one. Those without a factory hitch would have to consider aftermarket options.

And then there’s cost. While they are significantly cheaper than a larger camper or “destination” trailer , they still can cost a pretty penny—at least, when compared to your average tent that costs a few hundred bucks. Most brand-new pop-up campers range from as little as $7,000 to over $20,000 for the larger, more lavishly equipped models.

The Best Trailer Tents

Like the trailer and motorhome market, there is a plethora of household names in the pop-up trailer tent market —as well as a few startups growing in popularity.

OPUS Camper

OPUS Camper , a subsidiary of trailering outfitter PurpleLine USA from Pittsburg, California, made a name for itself for offering a full lineup of luxury pop-up tent trailers geared towards overlanders. Feature rich and fitted with all-terrain tires and beefed-up suspension, OPUS campers are the Land Rovers of tent trailers.

Should you despise manual labor, all their models feature its in-house “OPUS Camper Inflation” technology, which means they can all be popped up and collapsed with a simple touch of a button in a matter of minutes. But be ready to fork over a nice chunk for this level of amenities; the base Opus Lite costs nearly as much as a brand-new compact car, starting at $19,900.

SylvanSport

SylvanSport is a known brand among hiking and kayak fans, and has since expanded to make its own camping trailer, the SylvanSport GO. Starting at $10,995, the SylvanSport is an affordable option for the camping couple or small family.

It utilizes a simple-yet-sleek skeleton design with an integrated a pop-up rooftop tent pod that provides sleeping quarters for up to four people. Should you not need to utilize said tent pod, the SylvanSport also doubles as an outdoor activity trailer, offering the flexibility to haul bicycles, kayaks and even dirt bikes without having to dismantle the tent pod.

Known for their “A-frame” style campers, Aliner is a reputable and well-respected brand for this unique type of pop-up. It may not be a pop-up tent trailer in the traditional sense, as it features solid walls rather than soft fabric walls, but they still come standard with integrated systems such as electronics and plumbing.

They also provide more secure and private quarters, in the event wild animals are a campsite issue. And because of its fixed design, there are fewer moving and expensive parts, so these A-frame pop-ups are on the more affordable side, with some offerings starting at under $10,000.

Starcraft / Jayco

Not to be confused with the popular videogame, Starcraft and its parent company as of the 1990s Jayco are both household mainstream names known for RVs, campers, and pop-up tent trailers. Both offer pop-up tent trailer campers with similar designs and floor plans, offering a ton of flexibility, versatility, and onboard amenities.

Starcraft currently doesn’t have any new model pop-up trailers in its current lineup, and the most recent model from Jayco is the 2019 Jay Sport. But pre-owned examples from both manufacturers are abundant on the second-hand market.

But wait, there’s more

This is just short list of some of the most popular manufacturers in the pop-up trailer tent market as there are plenty of other outfitters producing similar trailers. Other notable brands include Taxa with their Woolly line of trailers geared towards overlanders , Forest River RVs and Coachmen . So rest assured, if you’re in the market for a pop-up tent trailer, there’s no shortage of options.

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25 Essential Pop Up Camper Camping Tips and Hacks

Are you ready to maximize your pop-up camper experience and embark on the adventure of a lifetime? I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide filled with practical pop up camper camping tips.

• Choose a level campsite: Find a campsite with a level surface to ensure stability and comfort for your pop-up camper. This will make setup easier and prevent any tilting or shifting during your camping trip.
• Properly secure the camper: Once parked, use leveling blocks or stabilizer jacks to secure and stabilize the pop-up camper. This will help prevent rocking or swaying while inside.
• Check weather conditions: Stay informed about the weather forecast for your camping destination. This will help you prepare for any potential rain, wind, or extreme temperatures. Consider bringing extra equipment like tarps or sunshades to protect your camper and enhance your camping experience.
• Create a cozy interior: Even if your pop-up camper doesn’t have an awning, you can still create a comfortable outdoor space by setting up folding chairs and a portable canopy. This will provide shade and protection from the elements.
• Pack essentials and necessary supplies: Ensure you have all the essential camping gear, including cooking equipment, utensils, camping chairs, bedding, toiletries, and first aid supplies. Don’t forget items specific to your pop-up camper, such as wheel chocks, spare parts, and camper-specific tools.

So check out these hacks to make your camping trip with a pop-up camper more enjoyable and efficient. From setting up your camper to organization hacks and safety tips, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and start exploring the possibilities!

Short Summary

• Arrive to your campsite during the day and select an ideal spot for a fun & memorable experience.
• Utilize wall space, bring multi-functional furniture, and charge the battery while driving with hitch cables to maximize storage and convenience.
• Plan ahead with weather forecasts & entertainment activities for a successful camping trip!

Pop Up Camper Setup Tips

Is this your first pop up camper?

Setting up your pop-up camper might seem overwhelming at first, but with some essential tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. The key to a safe and enjoyable experience is to properly level, secure, and organize your camper, ensuring a comfortable and functional space for the whole family.

So let’s review the basics and get your pop-up camper ready for the great outdoors!

1. Don’t Arrive to Camp in the Dark

One of the most basic camping tips, yet often overlooked, is to arrive at your campsite during daylight hours.

Setting up pop-up trailers takes some time. And there are several steps. Even the most expert campers would have a hard time getting their pop up camper set up fully in the dark.

Arriving during daylight hours allows you to see your surroundings, identify potential hazards, and set up camp more efficiently.

So plan your trip accordingly, and don’t let the sun quit early on your camping adventure!

2. Selecting a Campsite

Choosing the right RV parks and a good campsite can make all the difference in your pop-up camping experience.

Look for a smooth surface with good drainage, as well as a mix of sun and shade for optimal comfort. Consider the proximity to high-traffic areas like a water source, restrooms, and playgrounds, depending on your preferences.

State parks or national parks often provide amazing sites. But if you don’t have a generator and rely on shore power be aware that many state and national parks offer limited service and amenities compared to private campgrounds.

Remember, selecting the perfect campsite is just as important as the journey itself!

3. Leveling the Camper

A properly leveled camper ensures stability and comfort during your camping trip. Use leveling blocks or built-in leveling systems to adjust the height of your camper until it’s perfectly level.

A level camper not only provides a comfortable living space, but it also helps keep appliances like refrigerators functioning properly. And a tilted camper will also be uncomfortable to sleep in.

So take the extra steps to level your camper and enjoy the benefits of a well-adjusted pop-up!

4. Properly Securing Stabilizer Jacks

Stabilizer jacks play an essential role in keeping your pop-up camper stable and secure. To properly secure them, place leveling blocks or jack pads under all four corners of the camper, ensuring they are seated nicely on flat ground.

This will not only protect your jacks but also the campsite, providing a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone.

5. Expanding and Securing the Canvas

Expanding and securing the canvas of your pop-up camper is crucial for protecting against weather and insects. Carefully expand the canvas, making sure it’s properly aligned, and use a screwdriver to secure it to the hard side of the pop-up.

A well-secured canvas ensures a comfortable and protected living space for you and your family.

6. Charge the Popup Battery While Driving Via the Hitch Cables

Keep your pop-up camper battery charged and ready for use by connecting it to your tow vehicle via hitch cables while driving. This ensures that your camper’s battery is always charged when you arrive at your destination, allowing you to focus on enjoying your camping experience rather than worrying about the power supply.

It’s a simple yet effective pop-up camper hack that can make a world of difference on your trip with a tent trailer, travel trailer, popup camper, and pop up campers!

Interior Organization Hacks for a Pop Up Camper

Maximizing space and organization inside your pop-up camper is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

With limited space, it’s crucial to find innovative ways to store and organize your camper accessories. From utilizing wall space to choosing multi-functional furniture, we’ve compiled some of the best pop-up camper hacks to help you make the most of your living space while on the road.

Organizing your camper can be a daunting task but with a few simple tips and tricks.

7. Utilizing Wall Space

Don’t let wasted space go unnoticed! Utilize wall space in your pop-up camper with hooks, shelves, and storage systems to maximize storage space and organization. By installing hooks and shelves on the walls, you can create additional storage for items like clothing, towels, and kitchen supplies.

Make the most of every inch of your camper by utilizing unused wall space. This can help you keep your camper organized and clutter-free, while also providing extra storage.

8. Multi-functional Furniture

Choosing multi-functional furniture that serves multiple purposes is a great way to save space in your pop-up camper. Look for furniture that can serve as both seating and storage or items that can be easily folded and stored when not in use.

Multi-functional furniture, including a sleeping bag, not only maximizes space but also adds versatility and convenience to your camping experience.

9. Nesting Cookware

Save space in your pop-up camper’s kitchen area by opting for nesting cookware . These sets of pans fit together perfectly, allowing for easy storage in a small space.

With nesting cookware, you’ll have more room for other kitchen essentials, making meal preparation a breeze during your camping trip.

10. Bring a Tool Box

Don’t forget to pack a tool kit filled with essential tools and maintenance items for your pop-up camper. A well-stocked toolbox ensures that you’re prepared for any repairs or maintenance tasks that may arise during your camping trip.

Store your toolbox in a convenient and accessible location within your camper, so you’re always ready for whatever the road brings.

11. Use Suction Hooks for Hanging Storage

Suction hooks provide an easy solution for hanging storage and organization in your pop-up camper. Attach suction hooks to smooth, non-porous surfaces and use them to hang lightweight items like towels, bathing suits, and small storage containers.

Suction hooks are a simple yet effective organization hack that can help declutter your camper and maximize space.

12. Get Cabinet Door Spice Racks

Installing cabinet door spice racks is a great way to keep spices organized and easily accessible in your pop-up camper’s kitchen. Cabinet door spice racks maximize space by utilizing the often-overlooked area inside cabinet doors. Simply attach the storage rack to the cabinet doors using screws, and enjoy the added organization and convenience they provide.

No tools are necessary for installation, and the process is quick and easy. With the right spice.

Outdoor Living Space Ideas

Creating a comfortable and functional outdoor living space is just as important as organizing the interior of your pop-up camper. By setting up inviting seating areas, and cooking spaces, and adding cozy lighting, you can fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Let’s explore some ideas to enhance your outdoor living space and make your camping trip truly memorable, such as visiting nature centers.

13. Creating an Outdoor Kitchen

Setting up an outdoor kitchen is a fantastic way to enjoy cooking and food preparation while camping. Choose from a variety of options, such as portable stoves or grills, outdoor kitchen kits, or repurposing a storage compartment in your camper as an outdoor kitchen.

An outdoor kitchen allows you to fully embrace the camping experience and make the most of your time in nature.

14. Cook Exclusively Outside When It’s Hot

When camping during hot weather, consider cooking exclusively outside to keep the interior of your pop-up camper cool and comfortable.

You do have air flow inside the camper due to the mesh walls. But using a stove or oven can still heat up the interior significantly. Cooking inside on hot days can generate additional heat, making your camper less comfortable for sleeping and relaxing.

By cooking outdoors, you can enjoy the fresh air and maintain a cooler environment inside your camper.

15. Outdoor Seating Options

A comfortable and portable outdoor camp chair is essential for creating a welcoming outdoor living space. Choose from folding chairs, camping stools, and inflatable loungers to provide seating that is both functional and easy to transport.

With the right seating options, you can create an inviting space to relax and enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family.

And if you have someone taller or larger, don’t forget the oversized camping chair options !

16. Lighting and Ambiance

Set the mood for your outdoor living space with cozy lighting and ambiance. Add string lights, lanterns, and LED lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your camping area.

Proper lighting not only enhances your outdoor space but also provides added safety and security for your campsite.

Safety and Maintenance Tips for a Pop Up Camper

Keeping your pop-up camper in good condition and ensuring the safety of its occupants is crucial for an enjoyable camping experience. Regular inspections, fire safety precautions, and proper storage and winterization are all essential aspects of maintaining your camper.

So let’s discuss some safety and maintenance tips to guarantee a worry-free camping trip.

17. Regular Inspections

Performing regular inspections is vital to identify and address potential issues with your pop-up camper. Check the roof, lift system, fabric, LED lighting, storage and utility bays, and tires to ensure they are in excellent condition.

Staying vigilant with your inspections will help prevent any unexpected problems during your camping trip, so you can focus on fun and relaxation.

But if you do eventually find holes or tears in your fabric walls, replacing the canvas on a popup camper is surprisingly easy! And with new canvas, you won’t have to worry as much about bugs or water damage.

18. Fire Safety Precautions

Fire safety is paramount when camping with a pop-up camper. Ensure you have a fire extinguisher close by and install a smoke detector in your camper. Be cautious when cooking or using appliances, and maintain a safe distance between propane lamps and combustible materials.

Taking fire safety precautions will help protect you and your camper from potential hazards.

19. Air It Out After a RainStorm

After a rainstorm, it’s essential to air out your pop-up camper to prevent mold and mildew growth. Leave a few windows unzipped to allow for ventilation and ensure the camper dries out properly.

A well-ventilated camper will not only prevent mold and mildew but also keep your living space fresh and comfortable.

20. Proper Storage and Winterization

Properly storing and winterizing your pop-up camper during the off-season will protect it from potential damage and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure. Drain and flush water lines and tanks, add antifreeze to the plumbing, remove the battery, and seal any openings to keep your camper in top condition.

For maximum protection, consider using a dedicated camper storage facility or garage to store your camper.

Tips for a Successful Camping Trip with a Pop Up Camper

Planning and enjoying a camping trip with a pop-up camper requires some preparation and organization. From planning your route and meal prep to ensuring you have entertainment and activities for all ages, there are many aspects to consider.

Let’s dive into some practical tips to ensure a successful and memorable camping trip with your pop-up camper!

21. Planning Your Route

Plan your route and campsite reservations in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Consider the distance, terrain, and attractions along the way, and use tools like RV Trip Wizard to plan your route and calculate costs.

Because of the mesh walls in your camper, avoid high humidity regions and look for places with a lot of tent campers.

By planning your route ahead of time, you can avoid potential issues and make the most of your camping adventure.

22. Meal Planning and Prep

Preparing meals ahead of time can save you time and energy during your camping trip, allowing you to focus on enjoying the great outdoors. Plan a menu in advance, and consider the cooking source available at your campsite.

Prepare complete meals or meal components ahead of time, and store them in a cooler or your camper’s refrigerator for quick and easy cooking.

23. Entertainment and Activities

Bring entertainment and activities that cater to all ages and interests to ensure a fun and engaging camping experience for everyone. Consider packing board games, movies, cards, and outdoor activities like hiking and scavenger hunts.

By planning for entertainment and activities, you’ll create lasting memories and ensure a fantastic camping trip for the whole family. And watching TV is an option too either at night or in bad weather.

So plan ahead so you know the right equipment you’ll need to watch TV in your camper .

24. Know the Weather Ahead of Time

Checking the weather forecast and preparing for potential changes is essential for a successful camping trip. Use weather forecast websites or apps to stay informed about the conditions at your destination. Bring extra clothing and supplies to be well-equipped for any unexpected weather changes.

Adjust your plans accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

25. Use LED Light Bulbs to Avoid Extra Heat from Incandescent or Halogen Bulbs

Using LED light bulbs in your pop-up camper can reduce heat and save energy, making your camping experience more enjoyable. LED bulbs are more energy efficient and last significantly longer than incandescent or halogen bulbs.

Replace your existing light bulbs with LED bulbs to keep your camper cooler and make the most of your camping trip.

In conclusion, camping with pop ups offers a unique and enjoyable outdoor experience.

These versatile recreational vehicles, commonly known as pop ups, combine the best things about a small camper with the freedom of traditional camping. Pop ups provide a cozy and compact space, making them ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and flexibility.

When camping in a pop up, it’s important to find a level campsite to ensure stability and comfort on potentially uneven ground. Despite their small size, pop ups can accommodate small families with young kids, providing a comfortable sleeping space with small beds .

While pop ups may not have built-in air conditioners, there are portable cooling options available to beat the heat during warm weather camping trips. The small bathrooms in pop ups require efficient organization and minimalism to make the most of the available space.

In summary, camping in a pop up camper allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the convenience of a recreational vehicle and the charm of traditional camping. Embrace the coziness and simplicity that pop ups offer, and make the most of your camping adventures. Remember to pack all the necessary supplies for your small camper, including an air conditioner if needed.

Happy camping with your pop up!

Frequently Asked Questions

What do i need to camp with a pop up camper.

To camp with a pop-up camper, you’ll need bedding, clothing, cleaning supplies, health and grooming items, kitchen/cooking supplies, and toys/games.

These essentials will make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable!

How can I make my pop up camper better?

Make your pop up camper better by setting up a trailer hitch to charge the battery while driving, adding storage to the frame and ceiling hooks for vertical space, installing stacking drawers with velcro, changing light bulbs to save energy, and using shower curtains with suction cups.

These modifications will help you make the most of your camper and make your camping trips more enjoyable.

What are pros and cons of pop up campers?

Pop up campers offer great advantages for those new to the RV scene, such as being lightweight and easy to tow. They are also usually more affordable than other RVs.

However, there may be less privacy due to the thin walls.

Are pop up campers warmer than tents?

Pop up campers are the perfect balance of comfort and camping feeling, and they also keep you warmer in spring and fall than tents do, making them a great choice for outdoor fun.

They are easy to set up and take down, and they provide a comfortable sleeping area for up to four people. They also come with a variety of features, such as a kitchenette, awning, and storage space, making them a great choice for camping trips.

What are some essential tips for setting up a pop-up camper?

Arrive at the campsite during daylight hours, select a level campsite, level the camper, secure stabilizer jacks, expand and secure the canvas, and charge the battery while driving for the successful setup of a pop-up camper.

Before setting up the camper, make sure to check the area for any potential hazards. Look for low-hanging branches, rocks, or other debris that could cause damage to the camper. Also, check the ground for any signs of water or mud that could make the campsite unstable.

Once the area is established, it becomes a community.

Pop Up camper by JBLM MWR is licensed under CC2.0

Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell travels on and off with his 3 daughters in a Newmar Baystar Class A Motorhome. He writes extensively on both RVs, campgrounds, parenting on the road tips, remote learning & schooling, and much more! Click Here to learn more about me. Click Here to learn more about my site. Editorial Policies.

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Pop-Up Camper Won’t Go Down? Here’s What To Do

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Pop-up campers are a popular choice amongst those who want to enjoy camping without making a considerable investment in an RV. They’re easy to tow around to different areas for camping and require little to no effort to set up and take down. However, there are times when it’ll get stuck and need a little extra work to take down.

If your camper won’t stay up, check this article .

To fix your pop-up camper when it doesn’t go down, you’ll need to make sure the camper is fully prepared to be let down. Then, take down roof supports and tuck excess canvas in. Next, attempt to crank down your camper, and lastly, troubleshoot any issues and it should go down without any problem.

Throughout this article, I’ll explain in more detail how to fix your pop-up camper when it doesn’t go down. You’ll also learn how to troubleshoot if other issues are causing your trailer to malfunction.

For more personal tips about RV, van life, and sustainable lifestyle, check my resource page here .

Make Sure the Camper Is Fully Prepared To Be Let Down

If you’re having trouble lowering your pop-up camper, more often than not, the problem stems from a part not being taken down or stored correctly. It’s important to do a quick look and walk-through to ensure you put everything away correctly to prevent any trouble.

Make Sure to Zip Up All of your Windows

If you have benches with cushions on them, they’ll either need to be removed or lay completely flat so that they won’t be in the way. If the cushions are still up when putting the camper down, the mattress won’t be able to slide into the correct place.

Remove the Camper Door

The doors for pop-up campers will typically come with heavy-duty velcro, and it’s easier to take the door off with it shut rather than opened. Unvelcro the door from the sides and then lift it out of the tracks. There should be a spot on the ceiling the door will clamp to for storage.

Make Sure You Take the Sink Down Correctly

The process for taking down your sink differs between campers, so make sure you’re familiar with it before doing so. Some campers have a handle you pull to bring the sink down, while others have bars that you need to drag out of the way.

Put the Beds Away

Storing the beds is another process that differs from camper to camper. On some models, you have to pull the beds into the trailer manually. However, other models have a pole you unlock and lay flat on the mattress. After that, you pull down on the headboard until the bed completely contracts.

Take Down Roof Supports and Tuck Excess Canvas In

To avoid fabric snags and jams, make sure you tuck any excess exterior canvas inside. You should also completely remove the door and put the step in the correct spot during this time.

At this point, you should be ready to crank the camper down.

While not all pop-up campers have roof supports, many models do. These supports are also inconspicuous, so they’re really easy to miss when putting the trailer away. Before cranking down the camper, make sure you take down the roof supports if your camper uses them.

Attempt To Crank Down Your Camper

During this step, make sure you only crank little by little. As you go, continuously tuck in canvas fabric that falls out of place. Stray material that isn’t put away can get damaged and torn. 

Once you’ve cranked the camper down, latch everything according to the location of the latches on your trailer to keep everything in place.

If you see a slight gap between the roof and the bottom, tuck any stray fabric in again. If the issue persists, you may need to push down manually on the top and latch. 

However, you should only do this if there’s a small gap. Forcing the top down when there’s still too much space can cause severe damage.

Troubleshoot Any Issues

With all of this in mind, there are times when other issues are causing your pop-up camper not to close. If this is happening to you, there’s a chance it could be a problem with your camper’s driveshaft and whiffletree.

The whiffletree of a camper helps the drive shaft open and close the pop-up camper, which you’ll find underneath the vehicle. The whiffletree’s location makes the part susceptible to critter damage.

To fix the issue, you may need to replace your driveshaft, but to get it taken down for the moment, follow these steps:

• Take off the drive shaft cover. You’ll find the cover at one end of your pop-up camper. You’ll need to remove the surface to get to the driveshaft to lower the top.
• Investigate the pop-up’s whiffletree. The whiffletree is the long metal rod located underneath your pop-up camper that connects to the drive shaft. If you notice any animal nesting or debris, clear it out of the way.
• Crank the drive shaft with pliers or channel locks. Connect your pliers or channel locks to the first ring of the drive shaft, and then crank it. The drive shaft may give you trouble, and it may take a few tries before the pop-up camper comes down.
• Replace the drive shaft if necessary. If you find the issue reoccurs, you’ll likely need to replace the drive shaft.

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For a visual demonstration, check out this video:

If this isn’t the issue, the problem may be with the cables and pulleys. To check for cable/pulley issues, look where the cable system is and put any loose cables back onto the correct pulley. This is a common issue amongst older campers when being towed longer distances.

You may also find that the cables are simply caught in the pulley system. If that’s the case, you should use a lubricant to loosen them up.

Final Thoughts

When your pop-up camper refuses to fully close, it can cause a lot of frustration and worry. Normally, the issue stems from simple missteps, like forgetting to pull the kitchenette sink down or fully retract the camper’s mattresses.

The most important thing you can do to avoid this situation is to double-check you’ve stored all the necessary components before closing. By following the steps I’ve laid out here, you’ll prevent your camper from giving you any issues later on.

Pop Up Camper Won’t Stay Up? Here’s What To Do

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Hard Side & Hard Side High Wall Series

EMBRACING THE PINNACLE OF VERSATILITY. The Rockwood Hard Side Series emerges as a harmonious feeling of a travel trailer's exterior and the effortless towing convenience of a tent camper. Within this remarkable synthesis, every model features both an air conditioner and a furnace, ensuring your inner sanctum remains cozy, regardless of external conditions. The extraordinary speed and simplicity of setup ensures that mere moments after arriving at your chosen campsite, you'll already be immersed in the joys of your camping experience.

2024 Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers Floorplans

Hard side series.

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Hard Side High Wall Series

Specifications Definitions

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum permissible weight, including cargo, fluids, optional equipment and accessories that can be safely supported by a combination of all axles.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)* - is the typical weight of the unit as manufactured at the factory. It includes all weight at the unit’s axle(s) and tongue or pin and LP Gas. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh potable water, additional optional equipment or dealer installed accessories. *Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)** - is the amount of weight available for fresh potable water, cargo, additional optional equipment and accessories. CCC is equal to GVWR minus UVW. Available CCC should accommodate fresh potable water (8.3 lbs per gallon). Before filling the fresh water tank, empty the black and gray tanks to provide for more cargo capacity. **Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

Each Forest River RV is weighed at the manufacturing facility prior to shipping. A label identifying the unloaded vehicle weight of the actual unit and the cargo carrying capacity is applied to every Forest River RV prior to leaving our facilities.

The load capacity of your unit is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading your unit.

May Show Optional Features. Features and Options Subject to Change Without Notice.

2024 Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers Features & Options

* Due to the current environment, our features and options are subject to change due to material availability.

Standard Features

• 12 Volt Water Pump
• Torsion EZ Lube Axles
• 3 Burner Indoor Range w/Cover
• Solar Prep On Frame
• Battery Box & Wiring
• 30 Amp Detachable Power Cord
• 35 Amp Converter
• LED Ceiling Lights
• Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
• Positive Latches & Catches On Doors & Drawers
• Wood Drawers with Full Extension Metal Guides
• Interior Floor Lights
• Durable Diamond Plate Front
• Fiberglass Laminated Roof
• Electric Brakes
• 4 Stabilizer Jacks w/ Sand Pads
• Installed Door Step
• Large Folding Entry Door Grab Handle
• Courtesy Light on Front
• Outside Griddle
• Cable TV Ready
• Double 20# Gas Bottles w/Molded Cover
• Automatic Gas Regulator
• Hanging Wardrobe w/ 2 Shelves
• Takes 2" Ball
• Clay Fiberglass w/ Alloy Band Exterior
• Sedona Wood Interior
• Port-A-Potty (A213HW Only)
• Hot Water Pkg w/ Outside Spray Port
• Radial Tires (A122S - 13") (A213HW, A214HW - 14" Tires)

Hard Side Package

• Create-A-Breeze Roof Vent Fan
• Spare Tire w/ Carrier & Cover
• CO Detector
• Stereo w/ Outside Speakers
• 1.7 CU - 12V Refrigerator w/ 100W Roof Solar Panel
• 11K BTU Under Bunk AC
• Water Filter Supplied
• Power Front Jack
• 40 Amp Portable Solar Panel

Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up Campers Update Alerts

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How To Hook Up a Travel Trailer

Safety Disclaimer: The hole in the hitch latch is where your safety pin should be installed. Only tow with a safety pin in place. 

To understand the parts of a trailer hitch, it helps to know the parts on your trailer’s tongue versus those on your tow vehicle . So we’ve separated the parts above to help you identify how this connection comes together. 

Here’s a brief synopsis of the hitch parts on a travel trailer: 

• Tongue Jack : Provides a leg for the trailer’s tongue weight to rest on when disconnected and functions to raise or lower the tongue as needed for hitching up or leveling your trailer. 
• Trailer Coupler: The front component on your trailer’s tongue that attaches to the trailer ball and pivots for smooth towing.
• Hitch Latch: Holds the trailer coupler on the ball once coupled.
• Trailer Wiring Harness : Typically integrated into your tow vehicle’s wiring, this harness connects to the trailer to furnish power to lights, electric brakes, and auxiliary power. The connection is usually a 7-pin round connector or 4-way flat plug.
• Breakaway Cable: A safety cable that connects your trailer’s braking system to a hard point on your tow vehicle. If this connection is broken, the electric brakes on your trailer will activate. 
• Safety Chains: Two heavy-duty chains that connect to your tow vehicle’s hitch receiver to prevent the trailer from completely disconnecting if the coupler somehow disconnects from the ball.
• Safety Pin: The safety pin holds the hitch latch in place and remains with the trailer, whether connected or disconnected from a tow vehicle.

And here are the parts on your tow vehicle: 

• Trailer Hitch: Bolts onto your tow vehicle to create a coupling point for your trailer.
• Receiver Tube : An integrated component of the bolted trailer hitch that provides the connection point for the ball mount.
• Ball Mount : A two-part accessory comprising a shank and a trailer ball platform. The shank inserts into the receiver tube, and the platform provides a mounting location for the trailer ball.
• Hitch Pin: Inserts through the receiver tube to hold the shank in place. 
• Trailer Ball: The hitch ball is the connection point for the trailer coupler to attach to the hitch on your tow vehicle. They come in several standard sizes, so you’ll need the right size to match your trailer’s coupler.

The graphic above outlines the various parts of a travel trailer hitch. This image does NOT include a weight distribution hitch, which is an important accessory for safer, more efficient towing. 

Learn why you need a weight distribution hitch once you learn the basics of hitching up a travel trailer.  

How to Hitch Up a Travel Trailer

Before we cover the steps to hitch up a travel trailer, it’s important that you load your trailer properly. Improper load distribution is a leading cause of trailer sway and bounce. These symptoms create a much more dangerous towing experience. 

So if you’re not familiar, check out our video on how to safely load your travel trailer . 

Now that your trailer is loaded properly, here are your steps to hitch up a travel trailer:

• Find a partner to guide you and line your tow vehicle’s hitch ball up with the trailer’s coupler.
• Make sure wheel chocks are in place and raise stabilizing jacks if extended. Retract RV steps and slide-outs.
• Remove the coupler pin and lock (if applicable) and open the latch.

Technician Tip: At this point, you can use your tongue jack to lift the unit back up to check that the coupler is correctly latched. This will also assist when connecting weight distribution bars.

• Raise the trailer coupler until it’s higher than the trailer ball on your tow vehicle.
• Back up the tow vehicle until it’s under the trailer coupler. Communicate effectively with your spotter, especially if your tow vehicle lacks a backup camera.
• Place the tow vehicle in Park and set the Emergency brake. 
• Lower the trailer coupler onto the trailer ball and close the latch. If the latch doesn’t close easily, you may need to slightly push the trailer and tow vehicle apart to seat the ball correctly. 
• Secure the hitch pin, lock the latch, and clip the safety chains to the receiver. Chains should form an X from their mounting locations on the trailer’s tongue to their clipped locations on your vehicle’s hitch receiver.
• Attach the breakaway cable independently to a permanent part of the tow vehicle that’s strong enough to withstand the energy of the cable being pulled (i.e., The chain anchor loops on your truck’s hitch receiver). The connection must be done with a strong locking device like a quick link or a locking carabiner. 
• Plug in the trailer wiring and raise the tongue jack to its maximum height.

Safety note: The breakaway cable should never be woven through the safety chain’s links, or it will snap and not close the switch.

And that’s it! But before towing, you should: 

• Check the trailer’s running lights , brake lights, and turn signals. 
• Check the settings on your tow vehicle’s brake control to verify the connection to the RV and that the settings are correct. Know and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific brake control. 
• Close propane containers and shut off all appliances that run on propane when not connected to a power pedestal (i.e. refrigerator, furnace, water heater, stove, and oven).

Additionally, we highly recommend installing a weight distribution hitch and adjusting it properly for safer trailer towing. 

These additional videos will help you with those additional steps for safe trailer towing: 

• How to Hook Up a Weight Distribution Hitch
• How to Adjust a Weight Distribution Hitch

With your travel trailer hitched up safely, you’re ready for the open road. Here are a few resources to help you find beautiful destinations for your next RV road trip: 

• 8 of America’s Most Scenic Routes and Where to Camp Along the Way
• 5 Blue Ridge Mountains RV Campgrounds You Must Visit
• Exploring California’s Lost Coast in an RV

Do you have any questions about hitching up a travel trailer? Let us know in the comments below.

• Comment (2)

Plug in the trailer wiring to what?

Hi Marianne!

My apologies that this isn’t clear. Your trailer’s wiring harness should plug into your tow vehicle’s 7-pin (or, less commonly, 4-pin) electrical connector. In the included video, Ian completes this step quickly around the 2:36 mark.

Hope that helps!

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M. Night Shyamalan is getting so good that even his new trailers have twists

Trap has the best trailer we’ve seen in years

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Share All sharing options for: M. Night Shyamalan is getting so good that even his new trailers have twists

M. Night Shyamalan has long been known for his twists , but those twists are normally reserved for the ends of his movies , not the trailers. But it seems like he’s branching out into unexplored territory with his new thriller Trap , which has a first trailer that feels worthy of the Shyamalan name.

The trailer starts out with a daughter (Ariel Donoghue) rushing her father (Josh Hartnett) into a stadium where his favorite pop star (played by M. Night’s daughter Saleka Shyamalan) is about to perform. The concert has all the hallmarks and visual signifiers of an Eras-style mega-tour . But when the dad takes a break from the singing to go to the bathroom, he suddenly notices that cops and S.W.A.T. teams have the entrances to the building locked down, and things start to spiral into some very surprising directions. But you’ll have to watch the trailer to get the full effect.

In M. Night’s presentation of the trailer at CinemaCon 2024 , he said he developed the idea for the movie over several years with his daughter Saleka, who is a real-life R&B singer. Over the years, M. Night and Saleka frequently discussed how to combine their love of music and thrillers into one movie, and Trap finally helped them hit on just the right idea.

Of course, even with all the details that the trailer gives away, it’s likely that there are plenty more surprises in store for the rest of Trap — after all, M. Night wouldn’t give up his only twist in the trailer. But we’ll have to wait until Trap hits theaters on Aug. 9 for the full story.

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Taylor Swift Is in a Lavender Haze During Pickleball Game, Wears Viral Pop Flex Active Skort

Taylor Swift has been up to a lot during the fortnight.

In a YouTube short posted on Friday, April 19, Swift, 34, gave fans a glimpse into her daily life by sharing intimate moments with her three cats, boyfriend Travis Kelce and in the kitchen perfecting her cinnamon roll recipe. She also took her skills to the pickleball court.

In a scene from the video, Swift flashed a Kansas City Chiefs-branded paddle (a nod to Kelce’s NFL team) as she hit the court. Swift wore a fitted white shirt and matching sneakers, which popped against her lavender athletic skort .

Swift’s lilac bottoms are made by Pop Flex Active, whose $60 Pirouette skirt has gone viral on social media long before the pop star donned one.

Related: Every Time Taylor Swift Wore a Moody Outfit Ahead of Releasing ‘TTPD’

“From a team full of Swifties … this truly is our WILDEST DREAMS come true,” Pop Flex Active’s official Instagram account wrote on Friday.

The lavender version of the flared skort had initially been sold out, but given Swift’s appearance, the brand decided to bring it back for a brief window.

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“We released a limited amount for presale. This is not a drill,” a post on Pop Flex Active’s Instagram Story page read, noting any ordered versions will ship in July.

Swift’s pickleball ensemble is hardly the first time she’s followed the trends. When she attended Coachella earlier this month, she stepped out in the popular Halara skort . Swift, who attended the music festival with 34-year-old Kelce, paired the piece with a fitted black top, oversized leather jacket, Stella McCartney handbag and a “New Heights” hat. (The baseball cap, supporting Kelce’s podcast, had been sold out but also reopened its preorders after Swift wore one.)

The Grammy winner featured the pickleball outing and more items in a “recap” video to promote her recently released album, The Tortured Poets Department . The lead single is called “Fortnight,” inspiring a fan social media challenge of the same name for fans to share how they spend their fortnight period.

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Taylor Swift

More stories.

‘Trap’ Trailer: M. Night Shyamalan’s New Thriller Casts Josh Hartnett as a Serial Killer at a Pop Star’s Concert

Warner Bros. has released the trailer for M. Night Shyamalan ‘s latest mystery thriller “ Trap ,” starring Josh Hartnett, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills and Marnie McPhail.

According to the official logline, “Trap” follows a “father and teen daughter attending a pop concert, where they realize they’re at the center of a dark and sinister event.” The film’s first look was screened at this year’s CinemaCon in Las Vegas.

Popular on Variety

Shyamalan also spoke about casting Hartnett, who has recently made a return to acting by appearing in “Black Mirror” and “Oppenheimer.” Shyamalan said he works outside of Hollywood conventions, making films in a “small, reasonable” way. He noted, “What I’m looking for is someone that’s willing to just let go completely, give themselves over like a play to the movie and leap, leap, leap — don’t protect yourself. That beautiful electricity that requires the right actor at the right time in their life. And that’s where Josh was when when I when I met him.” Shyamalan continued, “It was just a feeling of the right person at the right time. I just had the most wonderful time working with him.”

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