Three incredible travel trailers make up Airstream’s single axle offering. From the adventurous Basecamp to the iconic rounded, riveted Bambi and Caravel, Airstream’s single-axle travel trailers are informed by nearly 95 years of travel expertise, handcrafted in America, and can be towed by a variety of mid-sized tow vehicles. Despite their smaller footprint (with lengths ranging from 16 to 22 feet), these travel trailers offer the comforts of home and feature expert Airstream design, ensuring efficient use of space within a compact footprint.
Bambi, Caravel, and Basecamp: Airstream's Nimble, Single-Axle Travel Trailers
Each of these small-footprint designs features unique characteristics, yet they all share Airstream’s signature craftsmanship, dependability, and design DNA. Like all Airstream travel trailers produced in Jackson Center, Ohio, Basecamp, Bambi, and Caravel reflect Airstream's long-set commitment to quality and longevity.
Download our Single-Axle Floor Plan Comparison Guide and dive into the details that make these lightweight models the perfect way to upgrade your adventure.
Airstream’s Single-Axle Similarities
- Towing Efficiency: Every Airstream travel trailer features an aerodynamic profile that improves fuel efficiency and handling. But our single-axle trailers are especially nimble and easy to back into tight campsites. They can be easily towed by mid-sized trucks and SUVs—possibly even the vehicle already in your driveway.
- Handmade Construction: Airstream travel trailers are built using high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring lasting durability. Like all our travel trailers, the holding tanks in our single-axle trailers are built into the chassis – putting more than half the total weight of the trailer below the floor line – resulting in a lower stance and improved stability while towing.
- Community Connection: Airstream ownership grants access to a vibrant network of fellow travelers, social groups, and Airstream Club International—the longest-running brand-specific RV club.
- Space Efficiency: Our smaller trailers offer all the comforts you find in larger trailers, with especially space-efficient floor plans that maximize storage. They’re particularly great for weekend excursions but can handle longer trips too. And all but the Basecamp 16 offer secondary sleeping areas so you can bring along the family.
- Modern Conveniences: The standard 12V refrigerators and optional microwaves, air conditioning, and lithium and solar packages mean you can tailor your single-axle Airstream to your camping and traveling needs while bringing along all the comfort you desire.
The phrase “size matters” often implies that larger is superior, but the opposite holds true for Airstream’s single-axle lineup. These models prioritize efficiency, ease of towing, and maneuverability while maintaining Airstream’s signature craftsmanship. Designed for first-time owners and those seeking an upgrade from tent camping or conventional travel trailers – as well as current Airstreamers looking to downsize from larger models – Basecamp, Bambi, and Caravel deliver high-quality design and durability in a smaller form.
Bambi and Caravel represent Airstream’s traditional riveted aluminum travel trailer silhouette, featuring aerodynamic profiles that have been refined for more than nine decades. Both models share identical floor plans at three lengths, with each offering a range of configurations suited for different travel needs. Basecamp, in contrast, is designed for adventure. Featuring a sleek teardrop-inspired shape and an aggressive departure angle for navigating beyond the beaten path, the four models in the Basecamp line provide off-grid capability and modern conveniences, enabling travelers to explore more remote destinations with confidence.
Basecamp: Engineered for Adventure
Airstream’s Basecamp is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a travel trailer that supports active lifestyles. Available in standard Basecamp, the REI Co-op Special Edition, and the Basecamp Xe, these models incorporate durable materials and an aerodynamic shape for efficient towing. Our most popular 20-foot floor plan is available in all three models, while a lighter weight 16-foot floor plan is available in both standard Basecamp and the REI Co-op Special Edition.
Add even more off-grid functionality with the optional X-Package, available for both Basecamp 16 and Basecamp 20. Featuring stainless steel front stone guards and front solar guards, a 3-inch lift for navigating challenging terrain, rugged tires, and more, the X-Package is designed for getting even farther afield. The X-Package comes standard in REI Co-op Special Edition and Basecamp 20Xe models.
Basecamp Details
- Versatile Floor Plans: Designed for adaptability, Basecamp’s interior converts between lounging, dining, and sleeping configurations.
- Off-Grid Capabilities: High-performance tires, optional solar packages, and a robust construction allow for travel beyond traditional campgrounds.
- Compact, Lightweight Towing: Basecamp’s streamlined design ensures an easy towing experience, even in challenging terrain.
- Powerful Electrical Capability in Basecamp 20Xe: Take off-grid adventures to the next level with 600W of rooftop solar panels, a 10.3kWh lithium Battle Born® battery pack, and a 3,000W inverter.
With its durability and mobility, Basecamp is designed for those who prioritize adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Bambi: Iconic Airstream Performance
Bambi introduces travelers to Airstream’s renowned craftsmanship in a compact, easy-to-tow format. Available in 16-, 20-, and 22-foot configurations, Bambi maximizes efficiency within a small footprint.
When Wally Byam traveler through Africa in the late 1950s, he observed small deer that the locals called “m’bambi.” Inspired by these nimble, sure-footed animals, Wally designed a small, sure-footed trailer he called “Bambi.” For years, Airstream manufactured Bambi models, and eventually began tagging all single-axle trailers with a Bambi badge. In Model Year 2020, Airstream reintroduced Bambi alongside a new Caravel line, and a legend was reborn.
Today, Bambi represents the ideal starting point for travelers wanting to upgrade their camping adventures and take on bigger travel experiences. Bambi provides an ideal transition from traditional camping to a refined travel experience with enhanced comfort and quality. If you love the outdoors but you’re tired of sleeping on the ground and using campsite bath houses, Bambi is the solution that lets you enjoy the outdoors in maximum comfort and much appreciated privacy.
Bambi Details
- Lightweight Construction: Our lightest traditional travel trailer and designed to be towed by mid-sized trucks and SUVs, Bambi offers flexibility for a range of travel needs.
- Efficient Layouts: Smart interior design incorporates a primary sleeping area, a dinette that converts into a secondary sleep space, kitchenette, and bathroom for a fully functional living space.
- Airstream’s Signature Aluminum Exterior: The semi-monocoque construction of the Airstream shell ensures extreme durability while remaining lightweight and maintaining classic Airstream aesthetics.
Caravel: Premium Features in a Compact Design
Caravel offers an elevated experience with modern interior finishes and premium materials while maintaining the same three floor plan options as Bambi. Designed for travelers who appreciate enhanced comfort and conveniences, Caravel incorporates additional refinements that distinguish it within Airstream’s lineup.
Like Bambi, Caravel is a great starting point for those dreaming of Airstream adventures. But Caravel takes mobile living to the next level, with refined décor options, additional features, and luxurious fabrics and finishes.
Caravel Details
- Contemporary Interiors: High-quality fixtures, ducted Quietstream® air conditioning, and thoughtfully designed storage spaces maximize functionality.
- Panoramic Windows: Expansive views create an immersive travel experience, allowing natural light to enhance interior spaces.
- Superior Craftsmanship: Handmade construction ensures longevity and durability for long-term travel.
- Upgraded Features: Caravel includes several features not included in the Bambi line that level up its capability, like a 2000W inverter, solar and stone guards, a bumper with storage, an optional Rear and Roadside awning package, and optional Convection Microwave.
Caravel is suited for those who prioritize aesthetics and convenience in their travel trailer while maintaining mobility.
Advantages of Airstream’s Single-Axle Models
Beyond individual features, Airstream’s single-axle travel trailers reflect a commitment to quality, durability, and efficient design.
Airstream’s single-axle travel trailers combine mobility, craftsmanship, and functionality, offering an ideal upgrade for those seeking a more refined travel experience. With models tailored for adventure, efficiency, and style, Airstream ensures that adventures of all sizes – from weekend jaunts to cross-country excursions – are both comfortable and iconic.
Download our Single-Axle Floor Plan Comparison Guide and dive into the details that make these lightweight models the perfect way to upgrade your adventure.
