In addition, the collaboration will aid REI Co-op’s plans to increase its “options for vehicle-supported camping adventures.”
“A rising customer segment that is younger, more diverse, and more spontaneous” is driving the increased backing for vehicle-supported camping, says Isabelle Portilla, divisional vice president of REI Co-op brands product strategy and design.
About the new RV model from Airstream and REI Co-op
Airstream Basecamp interior | Airstream REI Co-op’s research shows that a growing segment of REI customers desires a personalized camping experience that’s comfortable, self-sufficient, and suited to their pace. Though some campers enjoy booking reservations at campgrounds, others like boondocking in remote locations. The new REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer begins with the Airstream Basecamp 16 as its foundation.
The Airstream Basecamp 16’s body measures six feet long, seven feet wide, and nine feet tall when equipped with the optional A/C unit. It sleeps up to two adults, carries 21 gallons of fresh water in its onboard tank, and has a net carrying capacity of 800 pounds. Combined gray and black water storage totals 24 gallons, but the optional composting toilet reduces the amount of water needed for toilet duties.
REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer buyers have options for tow vehicles thanks to its 450-pound hitch weight, even with propane tanks and batteries. The Special Edition Basecamp also has a low base weight at 2,700 pounds with propane tanks and batteries but excludes personal belongings and onboard water.
Camping fans typically consider themselves environmentally conscious, and the REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer’s design will appeal to them. Airstream’s use of “post-consumer recycled materials” for fabrics and laminates, a sink cover that doubles as a cutting board made from recycled paper, and cabinetry made from sustainably grown wood provide the basis for a camper trailer that focuses on sustainable manufacturing processes.
Other features that reduce the special edition’s natural-resource impact and aid in its off-grid capabilities include:
a recirculating on-demand water heater
an optional composting toilet
a point-of-use water purification system
an optional “360 watts of flexible rooftop solar panels” designed to provide sustainable electrical service
an optional 200 amp-hour battery bank.
REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer availability
