Scamp Travel Trailers: Your Ultimate Guide to Lightweight Camping Freedom

Are you dreaming of hitting the open road and experiencing the joys of camping without the bulk and hassle of traditional RVs? Then Scamp Travel Trailers might just be your perfect ticket to adventure. These iconic, egg-shaped trailers have been a favorite among camping enthusiasts for decades, renowned for their lightweight design, durability, and charming retro aesthetic.

This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about Scamp travel trailers. We’ll explore why they stand out in the crowded market of towable campers, what makes them ideal for various travel styles, and how to choose the right Scamp model for your next unforgettable journey.

Why Choose a Lightweight Travel Trailer?

Before we focus specifically on Scamp, let’s understand the appeal of lightweight travel trailers in general. The desire for smaller, more manageable campers has surged as people seek more fuel-efficient and easier-to-handle options compared to large, cumbersome RVs. Lightweight trailers offer a sweet spot: they provide the comfort and convenience of a camper without sacrificing mobility and fuel economy.

Here are some key advantages of opting for a lightweight travel trailer like a Scamp:

Fuel Efficiency: Lighter trailers mean less drag and strain on your tow vehicle, resulting in significant fuel savings on long trips.
Easier Towing and Maneuvering: Their compact size and lighter weight make them much easier to tow, especially for those new to trailering. Maneuvering in campgrounds and parking becomes less stressful.
Versatility: Lightweight trailers can often be towed by a wider range of vehicles, including SUVs and smaller trucks, reducing the need for a heavy-duty tow vehicle.
Access to More Camping Locations: Smaller trailers can access more remote and rustic campsites that are inaccessible to larger RVs.
Affordability: Generally, lightweight trailers have a lower upfront cost and reduced maintenance expenses compared to larger RVs.

Scamp Travel Trailers: A Fiberglass Icon

Within the lightweight travel trailer category, Scamp trailers hold a special place. What sets them apart? Primarily, it’s their distinctive two-piece molded fiberglass shell construction. This unique design offers several benefits:

Durability and Longevity: Fiberglass is incredibly strong and resistant to dents, rust, and corrosion, ensuring your Scamp trailer will withstand years of adventures.
Lightweight and Aerodynamic: The molded fiberglass shell is inherently lightweight and aerodynamic, contributing to better fuel economy and easier towing.
Superior Insulation: Fiberglass provides excellent insulation, keeping you comfortable in both hot and cold weather and reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.
Water Leak Resistance: The seamless fiberglass shell minimizes seams and joints, significantly reducing the risk of water leaks, a common issue in traditionally built trailers.
Low Maintenance: Fiberglass is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal upkeep to keep your Scamp looking its best.

Alt text: A charming 13-foot Scamp travel trailer, showcasing its compact size and fiberglass shell, parked at a picturesque campsite surrounded by trees.

Scamp Trailers, manufactured in Backus, Minnesota, have built a loyal following over decades. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of their design have made them a sought-after choice for those seeking reliable and enjoyable camping experiences.

Exploring the Scamp Trailer Lineup

Scamp offers three main models, each designed to cater to different needs and group sizes: the 13-foot, 16-foot, and 19-foot (fifth wheel) models. Let’s take a closer look at each:

13-Foot Scamp Trailer: The Compact Adventurer

The 13-foot Scamp travel trailer is the smallest and most popular model, perfect for solo travelers or couples. Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to tow and maneuver, even with smaller vehicles. Don’t let its size fool you; the 13-foot Scamp efficiently utilizes space to offer comfortable sleeping and basic amenities.

Key features of the 13-foot Scamp:

Lightweight: Weighing in around 1,200 to 1,500 lbs (depending on options), it can be towed by many cars, SUVs, and minivans.
Layout Options: Offers various interior layouts, including options with a front dinette or a side dinette that converts into a bed, and a kitchen area.
Essential Amenities: Can be equipped with a two-burner stove, sink, refrigerator, and even a portable toilet.
Ideal for: Solo adventurers, couples, weekend getaways, and those prioritizing ease of towing and fuel efficiency.

Alt text: The interior of a 13-foot Scamp trailer, highlighting the front dinette layout, showcasing the functional and cozy living space.

16-Foot Scamp Trailer: The Mid-Size Comfort Cruiser

Stepping up in size, the 16-foot Scamp travel trailer provides more living space and enhanced amenities, making it suitable for couples who want more room or small families. It offers a comfortable balance between towability and interior space.

Key features of the 16-foot Scamp:

Spacious Interior: Offers a larger dinette, more kitchen counter space, and often includes a wet bath (toilet and shower combo).
Layout Variety: Available in layouts with a front kitchen and side dinette, or a side kitchen and front dinette, and some include bunk bed options.
Increased Amenities: Can be equipped with a larger refrigerator, furnace, air conditioner, and hot water heater.
Towable with Mid-Size Vehicles: While slightly heavier (around 1,750 to 2,000 lbs), it remains towable by many mid-size SUVs and trucks.
Ideal for: Couples seeking more comfort, small families, longer trips, and those wanting a bathroom and more amenities.

Alt text: A 16-foot Scamp travel trailer exterior view, emphasizing its increased size compared to the 13-foot model and highlighting its towable design.

19-Foot Scamp Fifth Wheel: The Roomiest Retreat

For those needing maximum space and comfort within the Scamp lineup, the 19-foot Scamp fifth wheel trailer is the answer. This model utilizes a fifth-wheel hitch, providing enhanced stability and towing characteristics. It’s the largest Scamp and offers the most amenities.

Key features of the 19-foot Scamp Fifth Wheel:

Maximum Space: Significantly more living space, including a separate bedroom area, larger kitchen, and spacious bathroom.
Fifth Wheel Hitch: Requires a pickup truck with a fifth-wheel hitch, offering superior stability and weight distribution.
Full Amenities: Typically includes a full bathroom with separate shower and toilet, a larger kitchen with more counter space and storage, and a dedicated sleeping area.
Ideal for: Families, full-time RVers, extended trips, and those prioritizing maximum comfort and amenities.

Alt text: A 19-foot Scamp fifth wheel trailer attached to a pickup truck, demonstrating its fifth-wheel hitch system and larger size for extended camping.

Choosing the Right Scamp for You: Key Considerations

Selecting the perfect Scamp travel trailer involves considering your individual needs and travel style. Here are some crucial factors to think about:

Towing Vehicle Capacity: First and foremost, determine the towing capacity of your vehicle. Match the trailer weight (GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) to your vehicle’s towing capacity to ensure safe and comfortable towing. Scamp trailers are designed to be lightweight, but it’s still essential to check your vehicle’s specifications.
Number of Campers: Consider how many people will typically be traveling with you. For solo travelers or couples, the 13-foot or 16-foot models are often ideal. Families or larger groups may need the extra space of the 16-foot or 19-foot models.
Camping Style and Trip Length: Think about your typical camping trips. Are they mostly weekend getaways or longer excursions? For shorter trips and basic needs, a 13-foot Scamp might suffice. For extended trips or those desiring more comfort and amenities, the 16-foot or 19-foot models are better suited.
Desired Amenities: List the must-have amenities for your camping experience. Do you need a bathroom? A dedicated kitchen? Air conditioning? Consider which features are essential and choose a Scamp model and options package that meets your needs. Scamp offers a range of customizable options, allowing you to tailor your trailer to your preferences.
Budget: Determine your budget for purchasing a travel trailer. Scamp trailers are known for their value, but prices vary depending on the model, options, and whether you choose new or used. Factor in not just the purchase price but also potential maintenance, insurance, and storage costs.

Finding Your Scamp Travel Trailer

Ready to embark on your Scamp adventure? Here’s how to find your perfect trailer:

Scamp Trailers Factory Direct: Scamp Trailers are primarily sold directly from the factory in Backus, Minnesota. Contact them directly to discuss your needs, explore options, and place an order. Factory direct sales often allow for more customization.
Used Scamp Market: Due to their durability, used Scamp trailers hold their value well and are frequently available on the used market. Check online marketplaces, RV classifieds, and camping forums for listings of used Scamp trailers. A used Scamp can be a more budget-friendly option.
Scamp Trailer Owner Communities: Engage with online Scamp trailer owner communities and forums. These communities are a wealth of information, offering reviews, tips, and sometimes even listings of trailers for sale by owners.
Attend RV Shows and Rallies: Keep an eye out for RV shows and rallies in your area. While Scamp may not always be present at all shows, these events are a great way to see different types of lightweight trailers and potentially connect with Scamp owners.

Embrace the Scamp Lifestyle

Scamp travel trailers offer a unique blend of retro charm, practical design, and enduring quality. They are more than just campers; they represent a lifestyle of freedom, adventure, and connection with the outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the world of RVing, a Scamp trailer can be your perfect companion for creating lasting memories on the road. Start exploring the Scamp lineup today and discover the lightweight camping freedom that awaits!

Alt text: A Scamp travel trailer parked at a scenic campsite with majestic mountains in the backdrop, illustrating the adventurous lifestyle and travel possibilities associated with Scamp.