“Reliable.” “Comfortable.” “Quality.” “Ease.” These are just a few of the words Airstream owners use to describe their trailers. The Airstream has become an iconic example of camping with its distinctive, rounded shape and polished aluminum coachwork. And while the relatively narrow width of the trailer may not suit everyone, twelve buyers interviewed for this article are “loving every minute” of Airstream ownership.
If you’re thinking of buying an Airstream, review “Considerations” at the bottom of this post. But first, examine your budget. New Airstreams start at between $42,900 and $156,400. While this amount may be do-able for some wanderlusters, others prefer a “gently used” trailer to keep the price affordable. Read on to discover your purchasing options.
Independent Dealer or Restorer
Customers buying from a local dealer may find it easier to make future purchases or receive service on their trailer. These businesses are not part of the Airstream company but rather, have an arrangement with the company to sell their product. Many dealers do carry used trailers, but keep in mind that they are in business to make money off each and every sale. You can find a list of dealers at Airstream.com.
Two of our interviewees purchased their trailer from a reputable restorer. One couple was lucky enough to to have a friend who owns Hells Canyon Vintage Airstreams in Idaho. The proprietor scours the Pacific Northwest looking for vintage airstreams on properties and in fields to purchase, restore, and resell. You can find other restorers by performing a Google search.
Web Deals
Most of our owners found their iconic trailer online (Remember: always do your due diligence when purchasing via the web.) Some Airstreamists prefer to purchase via a specialized trading forum, while others are comfortable buying direct from the previous owner via an online marketplace. You may find a deal on one of the following sites:
- RV Trader
- Airstream Hunter
- Airstream Classifieds
- Airstream Marketplace
- Autotrader
- Facebook Marketplace
- Ebay
- Craigslist
- Tinyhousecalling
- Perform a search for “Airstream” on Instagram
Considerations
Before purchasing your Airstream, you’ll want to consider a few factors:
1-Purpose for owning an Airstream. Will you be a weekend warrior or full-time camper? Do you plan on hosting guests? How big is your party? Will you work remotely from the trailer? Airstreams come in many sizes and layouts, so thinking ahead can help you plan which model is right for you
2-Readiness to renovate a used model. Do you have the necessary DIY skills? Have you properly estimated the time for renovation? Do you even have the time to renovate?
3-Traveling with your Airstream. Will you reserve sites though online resources like state campground reservation systems, Campendium, Allstays, Camgroundreviews.com, or Harvest Hosts? Do you prefer to book directly with the campground after checking the site physically? Are you willing to boondock (camping on public land without any facilities. The National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are good examples.)
4-Considering a tiny home? Check out https://tinyhousecalling.com/
Photo Credits
Jenny and Jo @weekendstreamin on Instagram
References
Airstream: Home
Interviewees (Instagram): Airstreamdakota, Airstreamdave, Airstreamramblings, Airstream_unhitched, Boulevard.airstream, Canweparkthishere, Goldie.the.airstream, Serafinatheairstream, Schwarz_explores, Southernroseairstream, Tincan.fixerupper, Weekendstreamin
Resources
RV Life: Your Ultimate Guide to Boondocking
Tinyhousecalling: Home
USA Gov: Consumer Issues